Celtic have had bad luck with injuries, but in recent weeks, Brendan Rodgers has been able to call on the majority of his squad’s star players.
Cameron Carter-Vickers is back on the pitch on a regular basis, Reo Hatate is showing off his skills after returning from injury, and captain Callum McGregor has returned to the starting lineup.
The one major concern right now is the status of winger Daizen Maeda, who injured his hamstring in training earlier this month.
Rodgers was initially unsure whether he would play again this season, which dealt a significant blow to the team heading into the closing stretch of the championship chase.
However, today’s news are considerably more positive, with the Japanese star appearing to have made a spectacular recovery.
The latest on Daizen Maeda’s Celtic status
According to the Scottish Daily Mail, Maeda has ‘confounded medical expectations’ by returning to light exercise after a series of examinations following his injury.
He is unlikely to make the team for this weekend’s trip to Dundee, but he should be able to participate in group training starting next week.
That means he could be available for the massive derby against Rangers at Celtic Park on May 11th.
Maeda has nine goals and three assists in 32 games this season, but that does not tell the full tale of his contributions to Celtic.
His speed and enthusiasm can be a powerful force in that attacking line, perhaps creating opportunities and forcing errors from opposing defenders.
That was never more apparent than in the recent derby match with Rangers, when he chased down James Tavernier and scored the opening goal in seconds.
His comeback provides a significant boost to Rodgers’ options, especially as other wingers are not stepping up and showing outstanding form right now. Everyone is hoping to see Maeda back on the squad as soon as possible.
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