Daizen Maeda has promised Celtic fans there is more to come from him after confirming he'd signed on a permanent basis this summer.
The Japanese forward signed on loan from Yokohama in January, although that was with an obligation to purchase at £2million.
Maeda netted the equaliser for Ange Postecoglou ’s side in their 4-1 win over Hearts at the weekend, effectively guaranteeing them the Premiership title.
The 24-year-old can’t wait to put pen to paper at Parkhead but will have some much needed time off after playing for a season-and-a-half without one.
“I am happy here,” said Maeda. “But I am looking forward to resting.
“I have been playing since the beginning of last season in Japan.
“I will have to take enough rest to be ready to go again next season. I want to be at my best next season.”
Maeda admits he doesn’t think there’s much between Celtic and title rivals Rangers, but that the change in mindset implemented by Postecoglou has made the difference.
He added: “To have the victory is very important. We got the result we needed and that is a nice feeling.
“I know that last year Celtic couldn’t get the title.
“This is why when I came here I wanted to give absolutely everything to get a result for the team. I am happy with the way the move has turned out.
“There is not a big difference between Celtic and Rangers, both teams play at a good level.
“But our manager brought a good attitude to us. He made us think the right way.”
Along with Kyogo and Reo Hatate, the Japanese influence brought by Maeda to Celtic Park has been key.
And he’s told fans to expect more from the trip next term.
“It’s nice to be with my countrymen of course,” he said.
“But we have to concentrate on football over everything else.
“In terms of next season we would like to play here as Japanese players together and keep getting stronger and better over a full season.”
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