Brigit Adongo
Celtic signed Daizen Maeda from Yokohama in January on a short-term loan deal, with an understanding to make it a permanent transfer at the end of this campaign.
The fact that the Japan international forward is happy at Celtic and intends to sign a new contract is encouraging for a player who has already won the hearts of Celtic fans.
I am happy here. But I am looking forward to resting,” Maeda admitted, as reported by Scottish Sun. “I have been playing since the beginning of last season in Japan. I will have to take enough rest to be ready to go again next season. I want to be at my best next season.”
Maeda lauds Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou, claiming he deserves the most of the credit for bringing in the January acquisitions and delivering the title to the Celtic supporters.
“To have the victory is very important. We got the result we needed and that is a nice feeling,” Maeda said.
“I know that last year Celtic couldn’t get the title. This is why when I came here I wanted to give absolutely everything to get a result for the team. I am happy with the way the move has turned out.
“There is not a big difference between Celtic and (the)Rangers, both teams play at a good level. But our manager brought a good attitude to us. He made us think the right way.”
“It’s nice to be with my countrymen of course,” Maeda admitted. “But we have to concentrate on football over everything else.
“In terms of next season we would like to play here as Japanese players together and keep getting stronger and better over a full season.”
“Next week, as always, we hope we will get to share the happiness we feel with our fans and supporters,” he said. “It wasn’t only against Hearts. Celtic fans are like that for us always and I am really happy to be here playing in that amazing atmosphere. It makes me happy.
“The weather has even improved recently and it feels very comfortable to live here now, I like it! But we don’t have the league title yet, so I will only think about that when everything is settled.”
