Celtic midfielder says he’s found a new part of the game under Ange Postecoglou

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Celtic midfielder Reo Hatate made an explosive start to life in Glasgow.

The Japanese internationalist joined the club on the first day of the January transfer window and got straight to work with Ange Postecoglou and his squad.

His impact was shown from his first start for the club, winning man of the match as Celtic returned from the winter break, defeating Hibernian 2-0.

His impact would continue through the month of January and February, scoring big goals against rivals Rangers and Hearts.

Thanks to his early performances in the side, he kept his spot as a regular in Postecoglou’s team.

However, as the season went into its final few fixtures, fans were beginning to notice a change in Hatate’s performances later in games.

This was, in part, due to the heavy workload Hatate had already produced in 2021, off the back of an entire season which ended in December with former side Kawasaki Frontale.

Hatate has recently opened up on his lack of rest in the final push towards the title last season and admitted his frustration at not being able to add to his goals and assists tally.

However, the midfielder also believes he has improved other aspects of his game during his short time at Celtic so far, including his defending.

He said [Sun Sport]: “I didn’t have much time to rest completely with all the games.

“The culture and environment are different, and I had to fight alone because there were no people with me,

“Being an attacking player, it’s very painful when I don’t get results — I can’t score goals or assist. But I also feel there are more things I can do, such as moving players and calming the game.

“I don’t know if that’s what I’m looking for, but my range of play has expanded. I was able to calm down when I thought, ‘Don’t hurry’.

“I feel that I’ve been able to work in the defensive part. I think I was able to discover a new part of the game.”

Celtic best is yet to come from Reo Hatate

It may have been a difficult end to the season for Hatate, but there were still plenty of positive signs to take.

In just six months, the midfielder has already made his impact on the club by helping to push for the Scottish Premiership title in the second half of the season.

There is also a lot to like about Hatate as a player, and his qualities on the ball are evident for all to see.

This summer, the Hoops have an extended break thanks to the automatic qualification for the Champions League.

So, it provides players such as Hatate with the perfect chance to rest before returning fresh and ready to go for pre-season in July.

The best is still to come from Hatate, and he will show that once again with his impact next season.

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