Brendan Rodgers on Daizen Maeda’s ‘Special Feeling’ | OneFootball

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers was absolutely delighted after his side’s dramatic 3-2 win over Motherwell at Celtic Park this afternoon as the Champions came from behind to win the match with a wonderful Daizen Maeda goal deep into stoppage time to narrow the gap on leaders Hearts to just two points.

Speaking to BBC Scotland afterwards the Celtic manager said: “Clearly it’s a very important win for us. The players showed an unbelievable amount of heart.

“Playing against a Motherwell team who are unbeaten, you can see why and see how they scored three at Hearts and two here.

“But we showed a real strong mentality today and real competitive grit. Even though we’re not at our levels we’ve shown in the past, you still have to win. The guys coming into the game brought an energy, mentality and fitness to the game.

“It was a really good game, credit to Motherwell. Few teams will come here and try to build the game.

“There’s no doubt there’s a feeling that isn’t quite what I would say is the Celtic feeling. We’re nowhere near our level, I can be clear on that. However, while you’re searching for it and looking to grow and settle players in, it’s important you win.

On Daizen Maeda, Rodgers said: “For him and his family it’s huge. There’s no doubt everything in the summer would have an effect on him. We kept him on because he has that ability in the box. So, so pleased for him.

“For four years he’s given everything, his heart and soul to this club. Naturally there was disappointment for him [in the summer]and I totally respect that.

“He’s still turned up and he’s working hard every single game. That there is a special feeling for him.”