Celtic midfielder Reo Hatate returned to the starting lineup for the 3-0 win over Livingston at the weekend.
The Japanese international had been sidelined since the Asian Cup after picking up a calf injury playing for his country during the 3-1 win over Bahrain.
However, Hatate started at the Tony Macaroni Arena and lasted 65 minutes before being replaced by Paulo Bernardo. Supporters on X were delighted to see the player back involved:
Thought, hatate was outstanding. Khun getting better. So much better with ccv back
— dave meighan (@mego1888) March 31, 2024
it was so nice to have Reo back, such a night and day difference moving the ball forward, always forward thinking and just loved seeing it
kuhn improving too just makes the run in more interesting
— Owen Chief (@_OwenChief) March 31, 2024
Quality player. 100%,we are in a good place. HH
— B.B. (@Greennwhyte) March 31, 2024
Aye. Hatate is purposeful with the ball. He’s unique at Celtic for that. The rest are happy to buckpass, he isn’t.
— Muga Daizen (@DaizenMuga21125) March 31, 2024
Hatate always plays the ball with purpose. Kuhn looked excellent today. Maybe taking a touch too many on occasion? Looks a player. CCV and Hatate are the heart of the team.
— Marko (@Markobhoy) March 31, 2024
Hatate is positive in possession
The 26-year-old always gets his head up on the ball to provide a forward pass, which isn’t a common trait among the club’s current crop of midfielders.
That positivity means opposition teams find it much more difficult to defend against Celtic, who have had issues breaking down some opponents this season.
The Celtic star’s return to fitness comes at the perfect time
Having got over an hour under his belt on Sunday, it means Hatate should be in contention to start the Glasgow derby against Rangers this weekend.
The result could prove crucial in who ends up winning the title, and having the Japanese playmaker on the pitch will greatly increase the chances of the away side getting the three points at Ibrox.
It will be hoped that, after a campaign blighted by injury, Hatate’s fitness problems are now behind him.
