Celtic midfielder Reo Hatate is now back in full flow after spending much of this season on the sidelines at Parkhead.
Overall, the Japan international has made just 13 appearances in all competitions for the Bhoys, registering two goals and two assists amid issues with his hamstring and calf [Transfermarkt].
Nevertheless, the 26-year-old has now made consecutive Scottish Premiership starts against Livingston and Rangers, cementing his place in midfield alongside Matt O’Riley and Tomoki Iwata.
Brendan Rodgers lavished praise on the trio for their performance at Ibrox, claiming their collective contribution was ‘absolutely outstanding’ in difficult circumstances.
He stated: “The midfield trio were absolutely outstanding. The midfield is the jungle as that’s where it’s won. All three played together. Tomo (Iwata) was excellent. He is 27 today so that was a nice birthday performance by him.
“He won the ball and passed it simply. Matty looked a threat and Jack Butland made a great save from his header in the first half. It was a brilliant save. You see what Reo (Hatate) brings. He elevates the team to the next level with his composure, his touch and his play..”
Now looking sharp, Hatate will be keen to compensate for lost time during the run-in. Undoubtedly, the former Kawasaki Frontale man will shoulder the opportunity creation burden in midfield due to his unique blend of innovative qualities.
Brendan Rodgers delivers exciting return verdict on Reo Hatate
Speaking to Celtic TV, Rodgers has given some further insight regarding Hatate’s return and the beneficial effect his presence could have in midfield for the remainder of the campaign.
The Irishman is excited his side now has an individual who can offer a different ‘dimension’ in build-up play; meanwhile, he has indicated the Suzuka-born man will only go from strength to strength over the coming weeks.
Rodgers stated on Hatate’s comeback: “It’s massive for us. It’s difficult for Reo because in the summer he just came back in and was trying to gain fitness.
“He wasn’t quite at his level and what we expect. He’s been injured a lot of the season, but I’ve seen his work and mentality in wanting to get back, and I just think there’s absolutely no doubt that when he’s in the team, he adds that extra dimension to the game.
“He allows you to progress the game and move forward, he’s creative, and in that period that he was on, he gave us real authority in the middle of the pitch. He’s only going to get fitter and stronger, and that’s only going to benefit the team.”
Truthfully, it is hard to disagree with anything Rodgers has said about Hatate, especially factoring in his ability to take risks on the ball by looking to break the lines with penetrative passing rather than playing it safe.
His first two starts have gone swimmingly since his re-emergence, and Celtic look like a way better team when he is charged with dictating the tempo in the engine room, something we will hopefully see against St Mirren this weekend.
