Daizen Maeda has looked a little more like his usual self since Martin O’Neill stepped in, especially compared with his uncertain form before Brendan Rodgers suddenly left Celtic and rumours started swirling about his future. But in Celtic’s late win over St Mirren on Saturday, some of the old issues reappeared.
Chris Sutton was openly critical of both Maeda and Anthony Ralston during the match. He noted at half-time on Sky Sports Football (22/11/25) that Maeda appeared like a “shadow” of the player he used to be. Sutton argued that while Rodgers’ difficult season provided a convenient excuse, the same struggles under a new manager point to deeper problems.
Maeda began the game on the right wing, though Celtic’s poor first half prompted O’Neill to switch him into a central role after the break. Still, he wasn’t the only player Sutton questioned. The pundit also took aim at Ralston’s first-half display and hinted that he should have been substituted.
Sutton said Celtic lacked energy and fluidity, especially in the final third, where the team has struggled for most of the season. He highlighted a lack of chemistry in attacking areas and mentioned that Johnny Kenny wasn’t getting the service he needed. Sutton added that while Tounekti threatened early, Richardson eventually dealt with him, leaving Celtic with almost nothing from the right side.
Pointing out the underperformers, Sutton said Ralston had a particularly tough first half and suggested Colby Donovan could replace him. He also reiterated that Maeda, who is unfamiliar with the right-wing role, simply hasn’t looked like the dynamic player he once was.
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