Daizen Maeda has hailed 'special' Celtic as he opened up on his new deal.
The Japan international has followed hot on the heels of Kyogo Furuhashi by penning his long-term future to the Hoops with his new terms running until 2027. He arrived at Parkhead under Ange Postecoglou and has netted 19 goals in 81 appearances for the Scottish champions to date.
The speedy attacker has quickly established himself as a real fans' favourite with his work-rate going both on the attack and defensively often coming in for praise. His new boss Brendan Rodgers has highlighted those qualities in his game branding him a 'really exciting' player as he expressed his delight at keeping him for the next four years.
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Speaking about his new deal, Maeda said: “It is a very happy moment for me and my family. Since we moved from Japan, everyone at the club and, of course, the supporters have been amazing and we are enjoying our life in Scotland.
“Celtic is a special club so I’m very pleased to extend my stay here. When I signed I said that my ultimate goal was to win the league and we have done so, twice.
‘Becoming a Treble winner last season has been one of the highlights of my career but we must now prepare for next season. Our aim will remain the same, to work hard together with the manager to bring success to the club and our supporters.’
“We have three trophies to defend, and we also have Champions League football, so I am excited to get started.”
Rodgers - speaking to the official Celtic website - added: “Daizen has many qualities that I like in a player - high intensity, attack-minded and his work rate on and off the ball is exceptional.
“He has played a key role in the team since he arrived, helping to secure yet another Treble for the club so I am delighted we have been able to secure a new deal with him.
“Daizen’s attributes make him a really exciting player and I am looking forward to working with him.”
