Celtic’s Daizen Maeda has offered his seal of approval for the club’s latest signing, fellow countryman Hayato Inamura.
Inamura joined the Hoops from Albirex Niigata yesterday in a £250,000 deal, signing a four-year contract and taking the number 25 shirt – a number long associated with Shunsuke Nakamura. The defender was in the stands as Brendan Rodgers’ side began their pre-season with a 1-0 win over Queen’s Park at the City Stadium.
Although the 23-year-old is not expected to feature in the first-team picture straight away, his arrival has created plenty of intrigue among fans, particularly given the strong Japanese influence already at the club.
Maeda was quick to welcome his compatriot. He posted a picture of Inamura getting ready for training at Lennoxtown on his Instagram story, adding the caption: “Dear Niigata!!! He’s fine.” The image showed Inamura smiling widely.
Brendan Rodgers has made it clear Inamura is a project player, stating he’s one for the future rather than someone who will immediately slot into the first team. But support from senior pros like Maeda will be crucial as the young centre-back adapts to life in Glasgow.
He’s not long started his senior career, making his debut just over a year ago. He came through the university system and has earned a good move to Celtic.
