Celtic coach Brendan Rodgers speaks positively on 26-year-old Reo Hatate return back to the squad

After sitting out most of the season at Parkhead, Celtic defender Reo Hatate is now back to full speed.

Due to problems with his hamstring and calf, the Japanese player has only played 13 times for the Bhoys across all categories, scoring two goals and setting up two others [Transfermarkt].

Still, the 26-year-old has started the last two Scottish Premiership games against Livingston and Rangers, solidifying his spot in center with Matt O’Riley and Tomoki Iwata.

Brendan Rodgers praised the three players a lot for their performance at Ibrox, saying that their combined effort was “absolutely outstanding” in tough conditions.

He said, “The three midfielders were absolutely outstanding.” This is where the game is won: the middle of the field. They all played together. Tomo Iwata did a great job. He turned 27 today, so that was a great birthday show.

A simple pass was made after he won the ball. Matthews looked dangerous, and in the first half, Jack Butland did a great job stopping his shot. That was a great save. You can see what Hatate (Reo) brings. With his cool, his touch, and his play, he takes the team to the next level.

Hatate will want to make up for lost time during the run-in now that he looks good. The former Kawasaki Frontale player will definitely be in charge of creating chances in the middle of the field because he has a unique set of creative traits.

Brendan Rodgers gives an exciting update on Reo Hatate’s return. In an interview with Celtic TV, Rodgers shared more information about Hatate’s return and how his position in midfield could help the team for the rest of the season.

“It’s huge for us,” Rodgers said about Hatate’s return. That’s tough for Reo because he just got back in from the summer trying to get fit.

“He wasn’t quite at his best or what we expect from him.” He’s been hurt for most of the season, but I’ve seen how hard he’s working and how much he wants to get back. I think there’s no question that he adds something extra to the game when he’s on it.