Maeda 'can't stay at my current level' after World Cup exit

Daizen Maeda says the World Cup "made me realise that I can't stay at my current level" after the Celtic forward suffered last-32 disappointment as Japan were knocked out following a 2-1 defeat by Brazil.

A transfer from the Scottish champions to Wolfsburg reportedly fell through late in last summer's transfer window for the 28-year-old.

And there are likely to be more admiring glances after he started his third game out of four at the finals in the United States, having scored in the 1-1 draw with Sweden that concluded the group stage.

"I personally feel that I need to keep improving and take another step forward," Maeda was quoted as saying by Sky Sports after the loss to Brazil.

"It made me realise that I can't stay at my current level and that I need to become a better player."

Maeda had also finished the club season on a high, scoring in Celtic's final seven games of the season, nine goals in all, and believes he can "return to Japan with my head held high" after the World Cup.

"We fought a great game, but the opponent was strong and I think we still have a long way to go," he added.

"Of course, we had the feeling that we could do it, but Brazil is just so skilled and powerful and we ended up spending a lot of time defending.

"I think it was just a matter of time before they scored, to be honest, but what we've done up until now remains unchanged.

"What we have built together over these past three and a half years since the Qatar World Cup, together with the players, staff, family, fans and supporters, is something I am very proud of. But I apologise for the defeat."