Celtic F.C icon Chris Sutton & the 42-year-old scottish football coach James McFadden brutally slams down Kris Boyd’s poor criticism on Celtic F.C. and the Japan national player Daizen Maeda

eltic forward Daizen Maeda has once again drawn attention, this time from Sky Sports pundit Kris Boyd.

The Japanese attacker impressed in Celtic’s victory over Livingston, setting up Johnny Kenny’s first goal of the season. With Brendan Rodgers reshuffling his lineup, Maeda was deployed on the left wing and, while he didn’t score, his pace and power created the assist that helped secure the win.

Although some fans admit Maeda isn’t yet at his peak form, Boyd’s comments on Sky Sports sparked immediate pushback from Chris Sutton and James McFadden. True to form, Boyd couldn’t resist a dig at the Celtic star, who has been a constant headache for Rangers over the last three years.

“They’ve kept the guy you once told me was like Maradona,” Boyd said. “He’s more like Madonna at the moment.”

Sutton hit back, calling the remark “pathetic,” while McFadden also defended Maeda, noting that he can’t be expected to carry the team on his own. Sutton agreed, pointing out that Celtic’s reliance on him needs to be managed carefully.

Given his track record against Rangers, Boyd’s jibe is hardly surprising. Maeda has consistently troubled Celtic’s rivals:

Maeda vs Rangers

• Goals: 5

• Assists: 5

• Appearances: 20

• Wins: 12