BRENDAN RODGERS stunned Celtic fans with his decision to hook Daizen Maeda at half-time against Red Star Belgrade.
The Japanese striker was the only player to come off at the break as Rodgers tweaked his frontline after a goalless first 45 at the famous Marakana.
Maeda was quiet in the first half but was still the surprise choice from the manager, with many assuming Yang Hyun-Jun would be the first to make way.
Kelechi Iheanacho was brought on in his place and made the difference in Belgrade as he pounced on the 55th minute to break the deadlock.
He had another couple of changes to regain Celtic‘s lead after Marko Arnautovic‘s leveller, but he couldn’t get the better of Brazilian stopper Matheus again.
Iheanacho was later joined by James Forrest in the attack alongside Sebastian Tounekti after he replaced Yang with just over half an hour remaining.
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The South Korean was given the nod by Rodgers after he scored against Partick Thistle on Sunday in his first start since his deadline day move to Birmingham City collapsed.
Similar to Maeda, Rodgers was convinced Yang was going to leave the club before the window closed.
And Celtic hero Chris Sutton can’t believe the Japanese frontman was the one who the Celts boss felt needed replaced in Belgrade.
Taking to social media, the Hoops icon speculated over whether or not Maeda suffered an injury during the first half which forced him off at the break.
He reckons the 27-year-old has been ‘shoehorned’ into the striker position and admitted he ‘feels for him’ – if he HASN’T picked up a knock.
He wrote on X: “Maeda off… if he’s not injured I feel for him.
“A guy who was a revelation playing wide shoehorned into playing a position he’s not comfortable.
“Surely playing him off the right would be better. 33 goals last season… a bit of a pickle Celtic are in.”
Sutton then reiterated his point regarding Maeda when he reacted at full-time.
He also had special praise for two stars who impressed in the tie.
He added: “Draw about right. Celtic better with Iheanacho as centre forward as they have a focal point and someone to play off.
“Need to utilise Maeda better… Donovan mature beyond his years👏👏🍀.”
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