Celtic: Reo Hatate suffers huge blow ahead of World Cup

Reo Hatate has been an absolute revelation since joining Celtic in January. The Japanese midfielder’s technical ability in the middle of the park is brilliant, while he has an eye for goal as well. Of course, there are certain areas of his game that he needs to work on, and does seem to fade away in games. But on top form, he is one of the best players in Scotland.

His performances this season for Celtic have been very impressive, both in domestic competitions and in the Champions League. But unfortunately, it does not look like it has been enough to impress Japan national team manager, Hajime Moriyasu.

Hatate was left on the bench, without featuring for a second, in the game against Ecuador. That means that he has not featured at all for Japan during this international break and there are no friendly games left, before the World Cup squad is named.

As reported by the Daily Record, he had said after the previous game against USA, which Japan won 2-0:

"“Honestly, I’m really disappointed that I was left out of the squad. I feel that I am strong enough.”"

Celtic star’s World Cup dreams are hanging by a thread after not featuring at all during the international break

It is safe to say that this would be a worry for Hatate and his hopes for playing at the World Cup in Qatar later this year.

If he is to get picked in the squad, he might have to raise his game at Celtic another level, because he does not have any chances left to show what he can do for the Japan national team in friendly games before that.

To be honest, it is very curious that Hatate has not been given a chance by the Japanese national team manager. His performances this season has been excellent and he can bring a lot to the table for them.