A Celtic key player is back in training just in time for their crucial clash against Rangers on Saturday.
The 26-year-old has returned to the training ground under the guidance of Brendan Rodgers after recovering from a hamstring injury sustained against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League back in October.
While Reo Hatate may not yet be at peak fitness, John Hartson suggests that Rodgers might surprise everyone by thrusting him into the starting lineup against Rangers, as reported by Go Radio.
Celtic’s midfield trio in recent games has comprised Callum McGregor, Matt O’Riley, and Paulo Bernardo. If Hatate starts, it would likely be in place of the loanee from Benfica, who recently scored his first goal for the club against Dundee on Boxing Day.
In comparison to previous weeks, Rodgers now has a midfield that is performing well, indicating less need for alterations. However, Hartson believes that even a less than fully fit Hatate is a better choice than Bernardo.
Despite concerns about Hatate’s match sharpness, Hartson suggests that if he has trained with the first team for a significant period, Rodgers might surprise everyone and include him in the starting lineup.
The primary concern is Hatate’s lack of match fitness. If he had gained some playing time off the bench in recent weeks, starting him on Saturday would be a more reasonable prospect.
Celtic supporters are eager to witness Hatate’s potential and hope he can demonstrate why the club should secure his services beyond his loan spell. The upcoming Rangers game could provide an opportunity for him to showcase his capabilities, especially considering the positive signs he’s been displaying.
Even if Bernardo delivers exceptional performances, a fully fit Hatate would likely take precedence over him. However, this scenario assumes Hatate’s readiness to compete and not merely his return from a muscle injury.
