McManus: Reo Hatate’s value just increased by ‘millions’ after never-before-seen Celtic development
Celtic star Reo Hatate has added “millions” to his transfer value after proving himself as a capable wing-back.
That’s according to former Hibernian striker Tam McManus, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about the midfielder’s versatility.
Hatate, 25, played as a makeshift right-back in Celtic’s win over St Johnstone on Christmas eve.
The central midfielder turned in a man-of-the-match performance as he scored twice in the 4-1 victory.
Hatate had never played as a right-back before but did turn out as a left-back on occasion for former side Kawasaki Frontale.
McManus was blown away by his performance.
“I’ve never seen anything like it,” McManus told Football Insider‘s Ben Wild.
“When do you see a midfielder drop into an unfamiliar position and play that well? He scored two goals, no one would have predicted that before the game.
“It’s funny, I bet St Johnstone thought they could really put pressure on him and get in down that side of the pitch.
“That just didn’t happen. I know he didn’t have that much defending to do but when he was called into action he looked more than comfortable.
“That just added some more millions to his transfer value. Versatility is king at the moment. If you can sign a player who plays in multiple positions and plays well there, you have to pay a bit more.
“I just couldn’t believe he played so well.”
Hatate has started 15 of the Hoops’ 19 Scottish Premiership games this season.
He has scored three goals in the league and provided four assists for his teammates in those outings.
In other news, an ex-FIFA referee suggests Celtic are being ‘massively’ disadvantaged after new VAR rant.