Celtic midfielder Reo Hatate came to the fore for his side on Saturday, opening the scoring in a deserved 3-1 win over Kilmarnock. It was the first time the Japan international had performed admirably under the stewardship of returning manager Brendan Rodgers, which was greatly encouraging for supporters.
On and off the ball, Hatate was impressive and took on the advice Rodgers gave him after the Lazio match. The Irishman said that he had to be better in his pressing and when without possession.
The player himself has recently stated what his key strength is. Speaking to Japanese outlet Soccer King, Hatate said: “I don’t know how it will play out, but there’s no way I can hold the ball for 90 minutes. Switching between offence and defence is one of my strengths, so I think the key will be how I can make my presence felt there.”
In transition, Hatate is a top talent. The 25-year-old’s vision is immense too, and he openly admitted that since he has recovered from injury, he has been more able to play his game freely. He said: “Since returning, I have gradually been able to play my own game, so I think I have been able to play for longer periods of time.”
A new contract combined with a gradual increase in fitness that has allowed Hatate to play his ‘own game’ makes sense of his upturn in form. The treble-winner will look to continue to improve while on international duty before returning to Glasgow for a crucial run of games with Celtic.
