Celtic expert wowed by what he saw Reo Hatate do v St Mirren – ‘Massive’
Reo Hatate is the “most influential player” for Celtic and his return from injury is “massive”.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, former Hoops and West Ham United striker Frank McAvennie hailed Hatate, 26, for his incredible performance in Celtic’s 3-0 Parkhead win against St Mirren on Saturday (13 April).
The central midfielder bagged the Hoops’ opening goal with a delightful outside-the-boot effort just inside the box in the 52nd minute – his first strike after an eight-game league stretch on the sidelines with a calf injury.
When he has been available, the Japan international has been one of Brendan Rodgers’ most influential players from the base of midfield having featured in all but one game in all competitions that he’s been fit for.
Reo Hatate is the ‘most skilful’ player at Celtic – McAvennie
McAvennie suggested that Hatate’s return will be huge for Celtic’s title push and claimed he was the club’s “most skilful” star.
“The most important thing for me is the boy Hatate,” he told Football Insider.
“Getting him back is massive.
“I know Callum McGregor is the captain, but for me, Hatate is the most influential player on the park.
“It’s great to see him back.
“As soon as he gets the ball, he looks forward.
“He doesn’t go sideways or look backwards or anywhere but forward.
“If he isn’t able to do that, he’ll switch it out to the other wide player.
“He’s a really good player.
“He’s the most skilful player in that Celtic side.”
In other news, Celtic hit by ‘huge’ transfer blow after £20m development – sources.
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