follows the Japanese midfielder’s costly error during Celtic’s 2-1 win over Livingston in midweek.
As the Hoops defended a corner shortly before the hour mark, Reo Hatate swung a careless boot and caught Robbie Muirhead, who had drifted into his blindside. The referee pointed to the spot and Muirhead made no mistake from 12 yards.
Although a late winner from Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain secured all three points for the hosts, it was another underwhelming display from Hatate.
Speaking to Record Sport, Chris Sutton admitted he fears for the midfielder’s place in the side.
“I’m less optimistic about Reo Hatate’s chances of staying in the team,” Sutton said. “He was poor for the penalty against Livingston and his overall form has dipped significantly.
“He could find himself out of the side. O’Neill doesn’t have time for players going through the motions. Hatate might feel he should be elsewhere, but he needs to understand that potential suitors will be watching him closely.
“Are they going to be impressed with what they’re seeing right now? Probably not.
“It’s in Hatate’s best interests to focus, work hard and help push Celtic towards the title. Otherwise, there won’t be much of a queue for his signature.
“As O’Neill mentioned recently, not long ago he was regarded as one of the best players in the country and worth his weight in gold. At this moment, though, he’s struggling to justify a place in the squad.”
Celtic are back in action on Sunday when they travel to face Kilmarnock in the Scottish Premiership. Their title rivals Rangers and Hearts also meet at Ibrox later that day.
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