Brendan Rodgers sees Celtic star Daizen Maeda as central striker in new era amid rave review for hat-trick hero

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Brendan Rodgers insists Daizen Maeda can be the centre of attention for Celtic this season as he sees the Japan star as a striker, writes Michael Gannon in Japan.The Hoops flying machine notched a sizzling hat trick in Wednesday’s wild 6-4 friendly defeat to Yokohama F Marinos.

Maeda was handed a starting slot through the middle with frontman Kyogo still building fitness after sitting out a spell due to his recurring shoulder injury.The Parkhead gaffer knows the World Cup star has spent most of his time with Celtic on the wing.

But he is convinced Maeda’s most effective role is at the tip of the spear. Rodgers said: “I thought Daizen was outstanding against Yokohama.

I like him more through the middle. I think he does a good job on the side. But there is a reason he plays for Japan through the middle.“I think his penetration and his movement is terrific.