Pundit and former Celtic hero Chris Sutton thinks that if Reo Hatate was fit throughout the current season, the Hoops would be out of sight in the title race.
For the majority of the campaign, the talented Japanese midfielder has been on the medical table. He has made just 11 appearances in all competitions, the most recent coming on the 2nd of January away at St. Mirren in a 3-0 win.
Injury has hampered Hatate’s season to a great extent, but Sutton made a remarkable claim that is a compliment to his abilities. “He’s (Hatate) been a massive miss this season”, he said (RecordSport).
“I’d go so far to say if he was fit all this time, Celtic would still be streets ahead in the title race.”
It is damning to come out with such a verdict. The poor parts of Celtic’s season which have caused them to fall behind in the title race from a position of strength have been catalysed by a culmination of issues.
To say that the presence of Hatate could have altered the way things currently are is sensational, but it shows the faith Sutton has in his talents.
