Barry Ferguson labels Brilliant star ‘dream team-mate’ as Celtic star earns thumbs up from Rangers hero
Daizen Maeda has been one of Celtic’s most consistent stars over the past few seasons.
Barry Ferguson has put his loyalties to one side by admitting Daizen Maeda is a ‘dream team-mate’ after his heroics at the weekend.
Maeda bagged Celtic’s third goal on Saturday in stoppage time with a superb effort from the edge of the box that left Livingston goalkeeper Shamal George rooted to the spot – which drew plaudits from up and down the country in a result that left Celtic top of the Scottish Premiership.
The attacker, who has arguably been one of Celtic’s most consistent players over the past couple of seasons, is noted sometimes for his carelessness in attack, which can lead to chances being passed up. But Rangers legend Ferguson has sung the praises of the Japan star, and added that he reckons Greg Taylor ‘loves’ playing alongside him.
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Ferguson told Go Radio: “He’s a team-mates dream! You love the guy. He tracks back, helps out and Greg Taylor must love playing beside him. He’s back helping him out and he does the dark side of the game brilliant.
“He’s good going forward – yes, sometimes he’s wasteful when he gets into good positions -but for the price Celtic paid and for what he’s brought since he’s been here, he’s been a real good signing for them. You could’ve had two goalkeepers in there and he’d still have hit the back of the net [vs Livingston].”
Hartson had preceded Ferguson’s superlatives by adding that the fact he’s played under both Ange Postecoglou and Brendan Rodgers just goes to show how well valued he is at Parkhead. He said: “The goal [vs Livingston] was brilliant. I was showed a video of his goals today at Celtic, and generally his work-rate to get onto the ball and his finishing.
“He can get labelled sometimes as not particularly a good finisher, but if you see his goals, where he’s ran from and making goals on his own, with his desire to get there and his pace and his energy levels, some of his goals are terrific you know!
You look at it. Two good managers in Ange and Rodgers have played him all the time. He gets labelled as this great engine, a quick player who can track back, but he can play. He’s got qualities as well, and I’m delighted for him, he’s a mainstay in the side, and he gives you so much as well as a goal threat, he can square it along.
“I’m trying not to mention his headers but he gives absolutely everything from first whistle until the last minute. I’m sure Barry would’ve played with similar players. But don’t get carried away with his energy levels, have a look at his talent as well – he’s a very talented player.
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