Reo Hatate’s current situation at Celtic is certainly an interesting one because Martin O’Neill isn’t pulling any punches.
After being shifted to right-back midway through the match against Dundee United before the March international break, which is clearly not Hatate’s natural position and not his fault, the midfielder didn’t even come off the bench during the recent win at Dundee.
Yes, Hatate has been poor for much of this season, and the criticism has been fair, but he has shown some real signs of life in recent times.
Speaking on Go Radio, Craig Moore has questioned O’Neill’s stance on Hatate and why he isn’t starting for Celtic.
“A bit harsh on Hatate when you think about it,” said Moore. “But for me, Hatate is one you would have in the team all the time.”
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Should Reo Hatate be starting matches for Celtic?
Instead of turning to Hatate, O’Neill handed Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain a start at Dens Park.
The January signing failed to impress once again, backing up 67 Hail Hail’s stance that Celtic simply shouldn’t extend his stay in Glasgow beyond this season.
With the post-split fixtures now officially out, O’Neill has some big calls to make in the coming weeks.
Is it time for Hatate to return to the XI? Callum McGregor is a definite starter, and with Arne Engels back available, the manager finally has some options in the middle of the park.
“A bit harsh on Hatate when you think about it,” said Moore. “The Dundee United game, he got shifted from the middle of the park to right fullback.
“So, he’s been told to go, and okay, he isn’t a right fullback. He has gone out to a position to try to help the team. He’s a very good player. It’s almost as if we are missing something for him not to have made the contributions on a regular basis this season.
“Did he not handle the transfer speculation and that kind of situation overly well? I don’t know. Maeda has shown that he is back to business. Hatate had done well. A bit harsh. There must be a reason why he was left out.
“But for me, Hatate is one you would have in the team all the time.”
Hatate’s last five games for Celtic
Whatever happens from now until the end of the season, Hatate, most likely, will leave, and it’s best for all parties.
But, as mentioned earlier, there has been more life and added quality to his game.
Yes, the Japan star is another bad game away from being highly criticised. But let’s be honest, everyone has been as bad as each other this season, so go for the proven, and Hatate certainly is that.
- Hatate’s goals in his last five games: 1
- Assists: 0
- Highest Sofascore rating: 6.9
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