Surprise Maeda recovery boost for Celtic

Maeda has missed two matches and will not be available this weekend

Daizen Maeda is on course to feature in Celtic's title chase after making a quicker than expected recovery from injury.

The Japan forward, 26, has not played since scoring the opener in the 3-3 draw with Rangers on 7 April and there were fears a hamstring problem would keep him sidelined for the rest of the season.

However, he has returned to training and could be back playing after Sunday’s Premiership visit to Dundee.

Manager Brendan Rodgers said: "I mentioned before that the information we were given was that he was probably going to be out for the remainder of the season, But he has responded so well.

"He has gone away and had further scans, and he is out on the pitch and you would think he has never been away."

Celtic go into the final five matches of the Premiership campaign with a three-point lead over Rangers.

The Old Firm rivals meet on 11 May at Celtic Park, while their paths cross again in the Scottish Cup final on 25 May.

Maeda has scored nine goals this season, missing five league games through injury in November and December and a further two while at the Asian Cup in January.

"Fingers crossed he will play some part between now and the end of the season, which is fantastic news because he has been consistently really, really good," added Rodgers.

"To have him back and his intensity will be a fantastic boost for us.

"I was speaking to Tim Williamson, the head of our medical team, and he said in his time here that he never fails to amaze him in terms of his recovery and just his overall physicality.

“There are still a few more steps to go but having him back would create a really strong squad for us."