All the talk in Scottish football will be about the upcoming Glasgow Derby between Celtic and the Rangers for the next few days. Not only is it an important match in itself, but the result could have major implications on the fate of the Premiership title as well. A win for the Hoops would put them twelve points ahead and the title race could be as good as over if that was to happen.
Both Celtic and the Rangers have been in good form coming into this game. The Hoops are the only team to defeat the Ibrox club since the appointment of Michael Beale as manager.
That was in the recent Scottish League Cup final, thanks to a brace from Kyogo. And one would hope that that gives Celtic an edge over the Rangers going into this weekend’s game at Parkhead.
Celtic do have a few fitness worries going into the match though. The status of a number of their players is uncertain at this point of time. One such player is Reo Hatate, who has been key to this team all season.
Chris Sutton claims Rangers fear outstanding Celtic star
As reported by the Daily Record, Sutton said while talking on the Record Celtic podcast:
"“The manager keeps his cards close to chest when it comes to injuries so you never really know. In terms of Hatate, I think he’s been Celtic’s most important player this season. When he is in the side, Celtic seem a lot quicker moving through the midfield. McGregor is so important at starting the moves but Hatate is really integral.“At this moment in time, Hatate is my player of the year in Scotland. I know Kyogo has scored the goals and Cameron Carter-Vickers has been an absolute rock. But Hatate is the key man. He’s also the man Rangers fear most – I really believe that. It would be a relief to the Rangers team if he doesn’t make it.”"
Hatate has certainly been a very important player this season. He is integral in the middle of the park for the Hoops and it feels like they struggle to build up a rhythm without the Japanese star.
He has put up some big performances against the Rangers in the past as well. So the fans will be hoping that he is fit to feature against the Ibrox club at the weekend. If Hatate does end up missing out though, it will be interesting to see what trio Ange Postecoglou goes with. There are some question marks over the fitness of Aaron Mooy as well.