Daizen Maeda reacts to Celtic’s LASK win with message for teenage standout | OneFootball

Daizen Maeda may have left Celtic this summer, but the Japanese forward is clearly still keeping a close eye on his former club.

Camilo Duran of Celtic celebrates with teammates after scoring his team’s second goal during the UEFA Champions League 2026/27 play-offs first leg match between Celtic and LASK at Celtic Park on August 19, 2026. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Maeda took to social media to single out Colby Donovan for praise following Celtic’s impressive 3-0 Champions League play-off victory over LASK on Wednesday night.

The teenager produced another assured performance at right-back, making his second consecutive start as he continues to deputise for the injured Alistair Johnston.

Maeda, who joined Ipswich Town in a £10million move earlier this summer, was clearly impressed.

The former Celtic attacker reposted the club’s full-time graphic on his Instagram story, tagging Donovan alongside applauding and fire emojis.

The academy graduate made 28 appearances during his breakthrough campaign last season and now appears to have established himself as Martin O’Neill’s preferred alternative to Johnston, moving ahead of the experienced Anthony Ralston in the right-back pecking order.

With Johnston currently sidelined, Donovan has been handed another opportunity to stake his claim and has responded with two consecutive starts.

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