CELTIC manager Ange Postecoglou has defended the contribution of Daizen Maeda amid a rush to judgement on the Japanese forward.

There has been some criticism directed towards Maeda on the back of recent performances but the Greek-Australian was keen to highlight the work-rate of the internationalist.

“I thought he was outstanding the other night - his defensive work was terrific,” he said.

“People look for different things but I know what I get from Daizen and why I brought him to this club. 

“A lot of people don’t see the work he does. The reason why St Mirren got nowhere near our penalty box was because Daizen was constantly pressuring their goalkeeper who is great with his feet. 

“Every player has a role within the team. Sometimes you don’t get all the headlines but within the four walls at Celtic Park, he gets his due recognition.”

Meanwhile, Postecoglou has reiterated his respect for captain Callum McGregor. The midfielder will continue to wear the protective facial mask as he recovers from a double cheek fracture sustained in a Scottish Cup tie against Alloa in January.

“I’m not sure when it’s due off but it’s certainly not affecting him,” said the Celtic manager. “He’s comfortable with it but he’ll be guided by the medical team. 

“People shouldn’t dismiss it because there’s a reason he’s wearing it. It takes a bit of courage to wear something like that - and not just because of the way he looks. 

“He’s protecting something that maybe others wouldn’t play with. It’s a reminder for people.” 

Postecoglou has also hinted that Christopher Jullien could feature imminently after spending 14 months sidelined with serious knee ligament damage. His only first team appearance this season has been against Raith Rovers in a Scottish Cup win.

“His opportunity might come sooner rather than later,” said Postecoglou.

“Chris is in the same boat as everyone else here. He’s working hard at training and he’s waiting for an opportunity to try and take it. 

“I haven’t ruled him out of anything. My view on the defensive area is that it’s important to have that cohesion between centre-backs and goalkeeper.  

“Cam [Carter-Vickers] and Carl [Starfelt] have been outstanding all year. That has meant that guys like [Stephen] Welshy and Chris have to be patient. Chris knows that and understands it.”