Celtic manager gives update on Reo Hatate after worrying comments

Reo Hatate has had an up and down time since arriving at Celtic in the January transfer window from Kawasaki Frontale. The Japanese star enjoyed a sensational start in the Hoops but his form has faded away since then, as he has appeared to struggle in recent games. And a lot of fans were worried, after he admitted that he was feeling the effects of both physical and mental fatigue.

That is understandable though. Hatate played a full season in Japan before arriving at Celtic. And things have been non stop here as well, as the Hoops chase the Premiership title. In the middle of all this, he has gone on international duty with Japan as well.

Thus, his comments were not a great sign for Celtic to say the least. Hatate has become an important part of the starting XI already and the club have some very vital games coming up.

Ange Postecoglou has given a more positive update on the situation of Hatate though. As reported by 67 Hail Hail, the Celtic manager told The Herald:

"“He is fine. With him, Daizen (Maeda), Gucci (Yosuke Ideguchi) and Matty (O’Riley), they’ve only come in the last three four months.“Whenever you come into a new environment it, it is always challenging, particularly when you’re coming to a new country, but he’s fine. He’s training well. He’s all good.”"

Celtic manager gives positive update on Hatate

This is certainly welcome news for Celtic, who might need to rely on Hatate in the upcoming games. In the current squad, they do not have too many players who have similar attributes to the Japanese midfielder, and Nir Bitton might be his only real replacement.

At the same time though, it will be very important to manage Hatate’s minutes smartly moving forward as it is clear that he is not at his best at this point of time.

It is his first season of football in Europe and considering that, he has done very well since arriving in January. Hopefully, he will adjust even better over the upcoming off-season, as he will know what to expect from the game in Scotland, get some rest and time to reflect.