Brendan Rodgers has delivered an official injury update on Celtic star Daizen Maeda.
This midweek, the rumour mill went into overdrive when it was revealed that the 26-year-old Japanese forward would make an astonishingly speedy return to first-team action despite having just suffered a hamstring injury.
It is said that Rodgers informed those present at a private Q&A session with shareholders on Wednesday night at Celtic Park that the forward’s recuperation was progressing nicely and that a comeback might happen soon—just not in time for this weekend’s trip to Dundee.
Rodgers has now openly discussed the injury to the player, who missed this morning’s practice, in a press conference prior to the match.
Additionally, the Northern Irishman has confirmed that Maeda is doing well and is back on the grass at Lennoxtown, just as he had informed shareholders earlier in the week.
Although he won’t participate in the match in Dundee, he should be able to return to the Hearts lineup.
When asked how his team looked for this weekend, Aaron Rodgers replied, “Yeah, looking good on the back of getting to the final.” “We’ve recovered and prepared well, and we’re ready for the weekend.
“I believe I stated a few weeks ago that we felt, based on the facts we were provided, that he would most likely miss the rest of the season.
“He answered really nicely. He’s been away for additional scans and ultrasounds, yet he appears to have never left the field when he’s out there playing.
“I don’t think he’ll be ready for this weekend, but he should be done with his rehabilitation by early next week, and hopefully he’ll play some role before the season ends.”
“This is fantastic news for us, as he has performed exceptionally well for us all season long. It would be such a boost to have his intensity back.
“Tim, our medical team leader, told me this morning that throughout his time here, Maeda has never ceased to astound him in terms of his recuperation and his physicality.
“The good news is that he is not receiving any treatment for the tendon problem he experienced following the game. However, there are a few more tasks that need to be completed.
“Having him back will give us a really strong squad.”
