Celtic have been given hope that Daizen Maeda's season is NOT over.

It was expected that the Japanese frontman would see out the remainder of the campaign on the sidelines after sustaining a hamstring injury in recent weeks.

However, it has emerged that this is not necessarily the case, with manager Brendan Rodgers giving supporters cause for optimism regarding his potential return to the squad.

During a private Q&A session at Celtic Park on Wednesday night, Rodgers said that Maeda's recovery was coming along well, and was progressing quicker than anticipated.

It was suggested that his return to first-team action could be imminent. This won't come at the weekend versus Dundee, but it could potentially come as soon as next week when Hearts visit the east end of Glasgow.

The event was a gathering for shareholders to ask questions directly of Rodgers.

While this is potentially fantastic news in terms of the season run-in generally speaking for the champions, if it does turn out to be the case, then Maeda will be fit in time to play Rangers on Saturday, May 11.

The 26-year-old has a particularly good record against the blue half of Glasgow. 

This was highlighted none more so than last time out where he opened the scoring at Ibrox after just 21 seconds, forcing Jame Tavernier into an error.

READ MORE: Kick-off time of Scottish Cup final between Rangers & Celtic

It would also be a boost for the Scottish Cup final against Rangers at Hampden on Saturday, May 25, as the Hoops aim to defend their trophy.

That game will kick-off at 3pm at the national stadium, it has been confirmed by the Scottish FA.

The decision to stick with the traditional kick-off time means that the Scottish Cup final will clash directly with the FA Cup final. 

This will be played between Manchester City and United at Wembley, on the same day, at the same time.