Daizen Maeda is AI living in real life as Celtic hero earns the review of a lifetime from blown away team-mate.

Celts captain Callum McGregor admits that the squad and the fans both adore Daizen Maeda. Internet AI has a good description of a football cult hero. A player who is admired by fans for who they are rather than their abilities. They can be charming, intriguing, or possess characteristics that make them relatable to admirers. Our robot overlords could just as well display a photo of Daizen Maeda. In fact, considering the Japanese star’s extraordinary levels of energy and the ice pouring through his veins, it wouldn’t be surprising if the attacker was a machine himself.Maeda’s Celtic story still has many pages to go, but it’s clear that the 27-year-old has cemented his spot as more than just a cult hero. At this rate, he’ll be remembered as a Parkhead legend. For a while, the wide man could both irritate and excite punters. Some jagged edges will always exist, as will the occasional shanked cross or duffed effort. However, Celtic fans have learnt to accept the rough with the smooth because they know Maeda has evolved into a guy for big events.

His Celtic teammates are also aware of the situation. Maeda did not have his finest performance at Hampden on Sunday. In fairness, a handful of his hoops teammates were in the same situation. Nonetheless, he delivered when it was most important. To score the second goal in the Premier Sports Cup drama, Maeda displayed the great touch and finish that occasionally surprises everyone. However, it was his winning penalty kick that cemented his place in Celtic folklore. It summed up his ability to take the fifth penalty, which he eventually scuffed into the net. Captain Callum McGregor has seen enough heroes come and go during his decade-plus tenure at Parkhead to recognise one when he sees one. And he reckons Maeda is worth his weight in gold – and silver – for the club. McGregor said: “Daizen has been unbelievable. He’s come up with so many big moments this season. But not only that, the whole time he’s been here he’s been a mainstay in the team and so important for us.

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