Maeda makes surprise Celtic confession

Daizen Maeda has revealed that he turned down the chance to join Celtic during the summer transfer window. 

Ange Postecoglou made the move to Glasgow from Yokohama Marinos on June 10th, on July 16 Kyogo Furuhashi switched from the J-League as the new manager started to put his squad together. 

Maeda did make the move on December 31 but only on loan although there appears to be a permanent deal lined up for the end of this season. 

Managers rarely like to get No as an answer but there is clearly a great deal of respect between the former Yokohama duo. 

Maeda told the Celtic website: 

I did have the chance to join in the summer, but I wanted to try and win the league with Yokohama. 

That didn’t happen in the end and I made the move to Celtic and I’m really happy with being here now and trying to contribute to the team. 

The ultimate goal is the league and if I can score lots of goals then that means I can help the team in that ambition. 

Maeda opened his Celtic scoring account five minutes into his debut against Hibs on January 17 and while not being as prolific as Kyogo has settled in well for a January arrival. 

Patryk Klimala and Vakoun Bayo were previous January signings, sinking almost without trace for a variety of reasons. 

Maeda’s workrate is very highly rated by his manager while fans discuss and debate whether he is most effective through the centre or out on the left flank.