Brendan Rodgers acknowledges that Reo Hatate’s return to action is unlikely to coincide with the Asian Cup, signaling concerns about the Celtic dynamo’s recovery from injury.

Since straining his hamstring within minutes of the thrilling 2-2 Champions League clash against Atletico Madrid in October, Hatate has remained on the sidelines. The Japanese midfielder’s expected absence until after the New Year appears to rule him out of the much-anticipated Old Firm clash against Rangers at Parkhead on December 30.

Rodgers remains doubtful about Hatate’s availability for Japan’s upcoming international tournament in Qatar, scheduled from January 12 to February 10. Expressing uncertainty, the Celtic boss stated, “I’m not sure Reo will be available for that. He’s progressing well but the likelihood is he won’t be involved in that. Hopefully, he’s back here by the end of that month. We’re judging that as we go. But he will be like a new signing for us.”

Adding to Celtic’s international commitments, the potential absence of Kyogo and Daizen Maeda, likely called up by Japan, as well as the inclusion of Oh Hyeon-gyu by South Korea, and a potential call-up for Yang Hyun-jun, may significantly deplete the Scottish champions’ striking options.

With the probability of missing recognized forwards, Rodgers appears poised to reinforce his attacking roster in the upcoming transfer market to fortify Celtic’s squad.