Daizen Maeda has been a key figure at Celtic ever since he made an instant impact, scoring just minutes into his debut in January 2021.

However, this season, the Japanese forward has taken his game to a whole new level, particularly after stepping into a central role following Kyogo Furuhashi’s departure to Rennes.

Maeda’s work rate, versatility, and goal-scoring instincts have been crucial in Celtic’s push for another title, with the 27-year-old already hitting 25 goals this season.

It’s the best personal season in his career and he is smashing the numbers from his best term at Celtic, closing in on Kyogo’s best 34 goals.

While some may be surprised at how smoothly he has transitioned into a striker’s role, Cameron Carter-Vickers is not one of them.

Speaking about his teammate’s form, the American defender insisted that Maeda’s intelligence as a player has made his switch to a more central role seamless. [RecordSport]

“He is an intelligent football player. We know he can play on the wing or through the middle. For Japan he plays through the middle so he has definitely got that know how. No, I am not too surprised.

“I wouldn’t say an improvement. He is definitely peaking at the moment, whether that is fitness wise I don’t know. He is always on the move, always running. I don’t know if he is improving. We always knew he had that quality and he is showing it now.”

With 10 goal contributions in February alone, Maeda is proving to be a nightmare for defenders, whether leading the line or attacking from the wing. His relentless energy and clinical finishing have seen him emerge as one of Brendan Rodgers’ most valuable assets this season.

If his current form continues, Celtic may have a serious fight on their hands to keep hold of him this summer, with interest bound to come from abroad.