Celtic’s Reo Hatate and Daizen Maeda have been selected to join the Japan squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. [JFA]

This inclusion highlights their roles within the national team, with Hatate continuing to make inroads and Maeda establishing himself as a regular selection.

Reo Hatate, who has been recovering from an injury sustained during a previous national team duty, has been trying to solidify his position within the squad. This call-up is a positive indication that he remains firmly in the plans of national team manager Hajime Moriyasu, suggesting that his performances and recovery have kept him in contention for more regular appearances.

Daizen Maeda, on the other hand, has become a familiar face in the national setup, being selected for almost every squad recently. His consistent performances for Celtic have undoubtedly contributed to his regular inclusion, marking him as an important player for both his club and country.

However, the news isn’t as positive for another Celtic standout, Kyogo, who has not been favoured by Moriyasu for inclusion in the national team. Despite his impactful displays for Celtic, Kyogo seems to be out of favour with the national team’s coaching staff.

Additionally, despite having an impressive season and previously being named a J-League player of the season, Iwata also misses out on a call-up.

Japan is set to face Myanmar on Thursday, June 6, followed by a match against Syria on June 11. Currently leading their World Cup qualifying group, Japan sits comfortably five points ahead of second-placed Syria.