Kieran Tierney and Viljami Sinisalo praise ‘amazing man’ Daizen Maeda

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The Celtic Star

·28 April 2026

Kieran Tierney and Viljami Sinisalo praise ‘amazing man’ Daizen Maeda

Kieran Tierney has singled out Daizen Maeda as a unique presence in the Celtic squad when he is performing at his best…

Spirit of ’86 – Celtic team’s welcome to Paradise. Saturday 25 April 2026. Celtic v Falkirk. Scottish Premiership. Photo Photograph by Vagelis Georgariou

The left-back praised his teammate following another decisive display, as the forward delivered two goals and an assist in the 3-1 victory over Falkirk.

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That return followed his strike inside the first minute in the Scottish Cup semi-final clash with St Mirren, taking his tally to three goals in two outings.

Maeda – who was named Scottish Premiership Player of the Year last season – has endured an inconsistent campaign this time around. However, his recent upturn in form could prove crucial as Celtic push for the title.

Daizen Maeda misses (but it’s offside) during the Scottish Premiership match between Celtic and Falkirk at Celtic Park on April 25, 2026. (Photo by Zak Mauger/Getty Images)

Tierney highlighted Daizen’s influence, insisting his qualities set him apart from anyone else in the side.

Speaking via Celtic TV, Kieran Tierney said: “But this guy is on fire now. He’s unstoppable. There is no player like him. When he plays like that, it lifts the whole team.”

On his own wonderful goal against Falkirk on Saturday, KT admits that it’s certainly one of his best ever finishes.

“It was up there [as one of his best goals at Celtic Park]. I was just happy to get the goal. I think the second goal is crucial, right before half-time as well. It settled everyone a bit, so delighted for it.”

Viljami Sinisalo also spoke highly of Maeda’s recent performances, expressing his admiration for the forward and voicing hope that he remains at the club beyond the current campaign.

Spirit of ’86 – Celtic team’s welcome to Paradise. Saturday 25 April 2026. Celtic v Falkirk. Scottish Premiership. Photo Photograph by Vagelis Georgariou

“You don’t want to lose players like that,” the Celtic goalkeeper said. “He’s a brilliant guy, a brilliant footballer, and a brilliant human being. People like that are big for the changing room and big for the club. I definitely hope he stays.”

“It probably took about three months before he spoke a word to me – no, I’m only joking! He definitely understands more than he speaks. You know you’ve done well if Daizen comes up and says ‘well done’ after a game, that’s always a good sign. He’s an amazing man. We are lucky to have him.”

Conor Spence

Daizen Maeda celebrates during the Scottish Premiership match between Celtic and Falkirk at Celtic Park on April 25, 2026. (Photo by Zak Mauger/Getty Images)