Daizen Maeda has eclipsed Kyogo Furuhashi's legacy at Celtic, according to former Hoops striker Simon Donnelly. The Japanese forward, who is set to leave the club this summer, has been hailed as a 'one-of-a-kind' talent after a remarkable three-and-a-half-year spell in Glasgow.
Maeda, who is entering the final 12 months of his contract, will bid an emotional farewell to the Celtic faithful at Hampden today as he targets a move to England. The 27-year-old has been a key figure in the club's recent success, winning five major honours and scoring 78 goals in over 200 appearances.
Donnelly believes Maeda's impact has surpassed that of fellow Japanese star Kyogo, who left Celtic last summer. 'From the minute Maeda walked into the club, his contribution has been nothing but sensational,' Donnelly said. 'He surpasses what Kyogo contributed. Last season, winning the Player of the Year award and scoring so many goals, was great.'
The former Celtic striker also praised Maeda's relentless work ethic, saying: 'I would have loved to have played with him as a teammate but I'd have hated to play against him. He is relentless. At 94 minutes against Hearts last Saturday, he was down trying to win things back at 2-1. He's been a pretty special player for Celtic.'
Maeda could now hand over the baton to rising star Callum Osmand, who returned from injury to score and assist in Celtic's title-clinching win over Hearts. Donnelly believes the 20-year-old has the potential to be the next big thing at Parkhead, saying: 'He looks bright, he looks sharp and he has a bit of everything. It's now up to him to take the chances when they come.'
