Celtic midfielder Reo Hatate made only his second start since October in the 3-3 draw against Rangers on Sunday.
The Japanese international’s season has been blighted by injury but he was back to his influential best at Ibrox.
Supporters on X were delighted to see Hatate having such a massive impact on the game and they hope he can stay fit for the rest of the campaign:
Hes like a new signing
— The Goose🏴 (@mickcroly) April 7, 2024
Immense
— Deco (@derekcoleman666) April 7, 2024
Exquisite vision 💚👌
— Serendipity (@serendi04728279) April 7, 2024
Night and day. What a player
— Kieran J (@Kieran88x) April 7, 2024
Looked leggy in moments but that’s to be expected, if we can get him up to speed he’ll be a huge player
— . (@bostonnative67) April 7, 2024
Direct forward passing and central shots.
— Stephen! (@Stephen_Tweeted) April 7, 2024
Pler
— Niall Farrell (@Firaldo87poker) April 7, 2024
Absolutely and he will be a massive plus for the run in.
— George Montgomery (@GeorgeM35159711) April 7, 2024
Hatate has been missed
The 26-year-old was also praised following the 3-0 win over Livingston last weekend, but he was equally impressive in the Glasgow derby, which is a much more intense fixture.
Despite the pressure he was under from opposing players, Hatate kept his composure and allowed the Hoops to take control of the game in the middle of the park.
Celtic should take belief from the result
While Hatate and his teammates will be disappointed with conceding the late equaliser, there can be no disputing the fact which team was superior.
The Hoops were just minutes away from winning the first three derbies of the season for the first time in 20 years. They need to take the positives from the game and ensure they put their title rivals under maximum pressure during the run-in.
At the moment, it is out of the hands of the reigning champions, but you would back Brendan Rodgers’ side to finish the campaign strongly.
