Mystery over Maeda’s international call off

Daizen Maeda has been withdrawn from the Japan international squad that will play Canada and Tunisia.

The pacey winger has been a first pick for Brendan Rodgers and played for 89 minutes of Saturday’s 3-1 victory over Kilmarnock following on from the Champions League defeat from Lazio.

There was no sign of any injury when Maeda came off with no mention of a knock during Brendan Rodgers’ post match interviews.

Breaking News: Japan national team announced that Daizen Maeda will not join the team this time due to injury. JFA didn’t disclose the details of his injury, but during international break he’ll be able to have rest and focus on recovery in Scotland. @M_daizen_1020 pic.twitter.com/w4px4UoZfy

— Yatao (@yataoda4) October 9, 2023

Dan Orlowitz has also tweeted about the withdrawal.

With Jota sold and Liel Abada out injured Maeda has become the first pick winger under Rodgers and signed a contract extension during the summer.

There is unlikely to be any comment from Celtic about an injury with the hoops not back in action until October 22 away to Hearts.

That match kicks off a hectic period followed by games against Atletico Madrid and Hibs in a seven day period with Maeda an essential part of Celtic’s plans for those matches.