Following the hamstring injury sustained by Celtic winger Daizen Maeda, concerns have emerged about his potential recovery time and availability for the remainder of the season. Hamstring injuries can be particularly challenging due to their tendency to recur and the delicate nature of the healing process, especially when involving the tendons.

Recovery times for hamstring injuries vary widely depending on the severity of the damage. There are three grades:

– Grade 1, which involves minor strains or pulls of the muscles or tendons. These can typically heal within a few days to two weeks.

– Grade 2 injuries involve partial tears of the muscle fibres and may require two to six weeks for recovery.

– Grade 3 injuries are the most severe, involving complete muscle or tendon tears. These injuries can take months to heal properly and often require extensive rehabilitation.

For tendon-specific injuries like those potentially affecting Maeda, recovery can be particularly prolonged. Tendon injuries are slower to heal and might necessitate six to twelve weeks before an athlete is ready to return to sport. Given Maeda’s remit and top attribute is his speed, he can’t really play unless it’s 100%.

Given the uncertainty expressed by Celtic’s manager Brendan Rodgers regarding the severity of Maeda’s injury, the medical team must assess and categorise the injury accurately. This assessment will guide the recovery protocol and determine whether a conservative approach with rest and physical therapy will suffice or if a more extended recovery period is needed.

As Celtic approaches the final six games of the SPFL season, there is no guarantee Daizen plays again this term. It’s a situation that requires not only managing the current injury but also implementing preventive measures to minimize the risk of recurrence.