Reo Hatate was one of Celtic’s best players during the time of Ange Postecoglou as the manager of the club. In fact, many pundits felt that out of everyone at Parkhead, the Japanese midfielder was the one who was most Premier League-ready. Yet, with the arrival of Brendan Rodgers, it looks like the 25-year-old is starting with a clean slate.
Hatate’s performances in pre-season left a lot to be desired. And he was left out of the starting XI against Ross County on Flag Day. Even a few weeks ago, nobody would have seen that coming.
David Turnbull started in his place and scored a brace on the day. Thus, it looks like Hatate might have some competition for his spot in the starting XI now.
Many fans have criticised Hatate’s body language in recent times. And all the speculation surrounding his future has not helped. Is it a sign that the Japanese midfielder is the next starter to head out the exit door after Jota and Carl Starfelt?
Celtic boss sends message about Reo Hatate ‘red flag’
Rodgers does not seem to believe that there is any attitude issue with Hatate. As reported by The Herald, the Celtic manager said:
"“Look, you never expect players to be happy if they are not playing.“That’s just the way Reo is, too. Even before a ball was kicked, I could see he has that style and way about him.“But he’s a good guy, there is no question of that. There are none of them here who I’d say there is a red flag in terms of their attitude.”"
Turnbull did a great job when given the chance on Flag Day and he was impressive in pre-season too. Thus, it feels like he might have moved ahead of Hatate in the pecking order at Celtic. Something that would have been unthinkable not too long ago. That’s how quickly things can change in football.
Hatate has not seemed to be at his best under the management of Rodgers and might still be coming to grips with his style of football. That does not mean that he can’t get back into the starting XI in the near future. The Japanese midfielder has all the talent in the world to win back his place in the team.