Brendan Rodgers confirms major Celtic injury boost

There has been very little good news for Celtic when it comes to the injury front. One player after another has gone down with fitness issues at the start of the season, leaving Brendan Rodgers with limited options to pick his team from. That contributed to the stumbling start they made to the campaign, even though the win away at Ibrox against the Rangers has limited the mood around Parkhead.

Celtic still need to improve though. Hopefully, the return of players from their respective injuries over the coming weeks and months will help in that regard.

Reo Hatate is someone who did not have a great pre-season and lost his place in the starting XI as a result. After that, he ended up picking up an injury as well.

There is no doubt about his quality though. On top form, he is not only an undisputed starter for Celtic but probably the best player they have as well. So, Rodgers will surely want him back available as soon as possible. And there is some great news in that regard.

Rodgers confirms major Celtic injury boost

As reported by the Daily Record, Rodgers told Celtic TV:

"“Hatate is back training with the squad which is great news. His energy been really good, he’s worked really hard since picking up the injury against Aberdeen. I’m really pleased he’s back, he’s a top midfield player and his mind is focused on playing in the team and doing well.”"

Before his injury, it looked like Hatate was struggling to come to grips with Rodgers’ style of football. Of course, the constant speculation over his future would not have helped the midfielder either.

Now, the summer transfer window is closed and he can focus on the action on the pitch. Hopefully, that will be enough for the best version of Hatate to reemerge once again.

If Celtic are to have a successful Champions League campaign and defend the Premiership this season, they need Hatate to be his usual self. At his best, he is arguably the best player in Scotland. And that is not hyperbole.