Rangers: Chris Sutton claims James Tavernier fears Celtic winger Daizen Maeda

Chris Sutton believes Rangers captain James Tavernier fears coming up against Celtic winger Daizen Maeda.

Japan international Maeda joined Celtic in January 2022 on an initial loan deal that has since been made permanent.

The 25-year-old played a full part in Celtic’s 1-0 Scottish Premiership win at Ibrox on 3 September when in direct competition with Tavernier.

Although Maeda did not score or assist in that game, former Celtic striker Sutton believes Tavernier must despise facing the Japanese attacker.

“Look at the games against the Rangers. “I’m sure Maeda’s name is among the first on the team sheet,” Sutton told the Daily Record [26 September].

“He completely negates James Tavernier’s attacking threat down that flank, while also posing a threat himself.”

“He’s been crucial in these games.” When Tavernier sees his name on the teamsheet, his heart must fall.”

A little extreme

Maeda completed the most dribbles (three) of any player on the pitch during the latest Old Firm clash at Ibrox [WhoScored].

Meanwhile, no player was fouled more times (three), indicating that he was certainly a thorn in the Gers’ side.

Tavernier’s defensive abilities have been called into question many times, including that day as Celtic edged a controversial contest.

To say the full-back’s “heart must sink” when he sees Maeda’s name on the teamsheet is a bit extreme, though.

Indeed, Tavernier had the most touches of any player on the field against Celtic (105) and played the most key passes (three).

He also led the way for tackles (four) among Rangers players, so he clearly did not do too badly in combining defence and attack.

If Tavernier has any sense, he will take note of Sutton’s comments and use them as added motivation when the next Old Firm clash comes around.