Celtic have hugely missed Reo Hatate’s personality in the middle of the park and it’s great to hear that he is edging closer to returning to action.
Brendan Rodgers stated that the 26-year-old is looking at a return date of January after missing the last eight Scottish Premiership matches, including three European ties through injury.
But for, John Hartson, he thinks there could possibly be a surprise up the sleeve here and Reo Hatate could be back sooner rather than later.
Celtic will lock horns with Rangers on December 30, with John Hartson adding ‘I wouldn’t be surprised if he is included in that team’, as he told Go Radio.
Brendan Rodgers did also previously point out that it’s unlikely the Japan international will get to participate in the Asian Cup games in January.
That’s probably him sending out a message that he doesn’t want his star midfielder selected because it certainly won’t help matters for Celtic, that’s for sure.
Either way, Reo Hatate’s name popping up on the teamsheet for Rangers will certainly put a smile on fans’ faces and John Hartson thinks it’s a possibility.
Reo Hatate’s injury update
“I think Hatate, he will be a big one to come back,” said Hartson. “They have missed him. They have missed his drive and his goal threat.
“He gets up and down the pitch. But he is better in the final third. There are 18 more days to go until Celtic play Rangers.
“He (Rodgers) thinks it’s early January, but if he recovers really, really well then I wouldn’t be too surprised if he is included in that team.”
Reo Hatate in Celtic’s midfield
The quicker he returns, the better it is for Celtic and the team’s below-par performances improving.
That bite, flair and arrogance is needed in this Celtic side, with Hatate proving to be a bigger miss in Europe.
Whilst the Bhoys can get about losing key players on the domestic stage and still putting up points, you can’t say the same for the Champions League.
