Martin O’Neill may have just added even more tension ahead of Sunday’s Old Firm clash after saying he is “very confident” Daizen Maeda will be available to face Rangers. Considering the form Maeda has been in recently, the comments immediately caught attention from supporters on both sides. The Celtic forward has scored four goals in his last three games and continues to look like one of the most dangerous attacking players in Scottish football right now. Rangers fans also remember exactly what happened the last time he faced them, with his pace and pressing causing problems throughout the match.
But it wasn’t only Maeda’s possible return that got people talking. O’Neill also described Rangers as a “wounded animal” following their recent defeat to Hearts, and many supporters believe the comment was far from accidental. Some fans see it as a warning that Rangers could become even more dangerous after criticism and disappointment, while others believe it was a subtle attempt to increase the pressure before one of football’s biggest rivalries.
The timing of the comments has only added more attention to a match that already carried huge pressure. Rangers are coming into the game with questions surrounding recent performances, while Celtic appear to have momentum and confidence on their side. That combination alone was enough to make this fixture feel massive, but O’Neill’s remarks have now added another layer of tension before kickoff.
What makes the situation even more interesting is the form of Daizen Maeda himself. When fully fit, the Japanese international completely changes Celtic’s attack with his relentless energy, movement, and ability to force mistakes from defenders. In games as emotional and intense as the Old Firm, players like Maeda often become the difference.
Whether O’Neill intended to play mind games or was simply speaking honestly, one thing is certain — his comments have everyone talking ahead of Sunday’s showdown.
