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Iheanacho Stakes Claim as Rodgers Benches Maeda in Celtic’s Europa League Draw

Rodgers’ half-time switch to Kelechi Iheanacho underscored a tactical reset, leaving Daizen Maeda under pressure.

Overview

  • Celtic opened their Europa League campaign with a 1-1 draw at Red Star as Kelechi Iheanacho scored before Marko Arnautovic equalised.
  • Brendan Rodgers explained he replaced Daizen Maeda at the break because the team needed a central forward who could hold the ball up and urged 'realism' about Europa League ambitions.
  • Maeda completed just seven touches and four passes in a subdued first half and was caught offside twice, according to BBC analysis.
  • Former manager Neil Lennon questioned Maeda’s attitude on Premier Sports, saying he is 'miles away' from last season’s level and 'owes Celtic' after failing to secure a summer move.
  • Maeda requested a transfer in the summer amid reported Premier League interest but stayed, while new signing Iheanacho has two goals and an assist in his first three games to present a clear alternative up front.