Celtic striker Daizen Maeda is yet to show his best form for the club following his arrival in January, according to Sky Sports reporter Anthony Joseph.

The 24-year-old was one of several Japanese players to arrive at Parkhead last term as manager Ange Postecoglou exploited his knowledge of the J-League to the Hoops’ benefit.

What is the latest news involving Maeda?

Maeda arrived from Yokohama F Marinos, having already worked under Postecoglou at the club, on an initial six-month loan deal that included the option to buy.

And after the versatile star registered seven goals and five assists in his opening 21 appearances for the Glasgow giants, they have decided to splash out £2 million to make his stay permanent.

However, it would be understandable if Maeda felt he failed to showcase his true potential last term after joining Celtic just a month after his 2020/21 campaign with Yokohama had reached its conclusion.

The Japan international found the back of the net on 23 occasions, setting up a further three strikes in 39 outings for Yokohama before he made the switch to Celtic.

What has Joseph said about Maeda?

In an interview with GiveMeSport, Joseph said: “One thing about Maeda is we've probably not seen the best of him yet.

“One, he’s been playing out of his natural position, and two, he played a whole season in Japan and came to Celtic in January and then played half a season.

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“So, he didn't really have a break, and when Celtic did have their winter break, that was basically his pre-season. So, he's basically done a full season, a pre-season, and then straight into the second half of a season.

“But Maeda hasn't shown that in his athleticism, agility, and his stamina because he's like a Duracell battery. He’s constant, he doesn't stop.”

Could Maeda improve?

As Joseph pointed out, Maeda was forced to play out his natural position at the top end of the pitch numerous times last term, with Postecoglou selecting him on the left-wing.

And it seems his overall impact upon proceedings suffered as a result. As per WhoScored, the Japan international averaged just 0.5 key passes, 0.1 crosses and 0.5 dribbles per league game throughout 2021/22.

Those figures saw him fall outside of the top 12 for each metric when compared to his teammates, indicating Maeda has plenty of room for improvement in a Celtic shirt.