After a month in which he was in incredible form, Celtic’s Daizen Maeda has earned the title of Scottish Premiership Player of the Month for February.
Especially without Kyogo, the Japanese attacker has been a vital member of Celtic this season, demonstrating that he is more than capable of leading the line.
Maeda launched February with a spectacular header just 49 seconds into Celtic’s 3-1 victory over Motherwell. The winger’s early goal set the tone for the match, but he was not done yet; he also contributed two assists, including a stoppage-time pass for Jota, who scored his second goal for Celtic in his debut. Maeda’s ability to impact the game was evident throughout the month as he was instrumental in Celtic’s goals.
Three days following his outstanding performance against Motherwell, Maeda scored twice in Celtic’s resounding 6-0 triumph over Dundee at Celtic Park. His clinical finishing and unrelenting running were evident, which further demonstrated his value to the team. Maeda’s ability to score with both feet demonstrated his offensive versatility, and it was evident that he was becoming more self-assured with every game.
However, February was not without its setbacks for Maeda. The Japanese forward scored again in Celtic’s 2-1 loss to Hibernian at Easter Road, but he also had a goal incorrectly disallowed by VAR. Despite the controversy surrounding the decision, Maeda remained calm and concentrated on helping the team perform. His upbeat demeanor despite the loss says volumes about his mindset.
Maeda scored twice to bring his February goal total to six as Celtic defeated Aberdeen 5-1, capping off an incredible performance. He won Player of the Month as a result of his outstanding performance, which demonstrated his capacity to step up in crucial situations. Maeda has genuinely demonstrated that he can pose a serious threat to Celtic even in Kyogo’s absence.
Maeda was quick to admit that the team’s collective efforts are what led to his own success in an interview with Celtic The team is doing well and because of that I can score the goals. So yeah, I am really pleased for the team performance,” Maeda said. “I just keep continuing doing what I am used to doing. I always try to work hard and try to do my best towards each game, so yeah, all the games were very important for me.”
“We still have a chance to win the treble and that is our aim as a team, so yeah, we will try to work hard as a team towards that,” the 27-year-old winger said, speaking to Celtic’s treble aspirations.
Celtic’s attacking options appear to be very dangerous with Maeda in this form. One of the Premiership’s most impressive players this season is his ability to lead the line and contribute with crucial goals and assists. Maeda, along with Mo Salah, is currently Scotland’s and possibly the world’s best player as the Hoops continue their quest for a domestic treble.
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