Celtic midfielder Reo Hatate stole the show for the Bhoys on Wednesday night, earning huge praise from pundit James McFadden in the process.
Celtic hosted bitter rivals Rangers at Parkhead, knowing they would go top of the Scottish Premiership table with a win.
Rangers have been shaky of late and Celtic took full advantage by scoring early, with Hatate volleying the ball home from the edge of the box.
Hatate made it two with an even better goal, bending a beauty of a strike beyond Allan McGregor in the Rangers goal.
When Liel Abada turned in number three, Celtic had effectively won the game by half-time – and Rangers just had no response.
Hatate continues to shine, taking to Scottish football brilliantly since arriving from Kawasaki Frontale last month.
The Japanese midfielder scored a long-range screamer against Hearts just last week, and has just added two more great goals to his tally.
Hatate has quickly become undroppable in Celtic’s midfield, showing a high level of technical ability to go along with work rate and tenacity.
Having seen Kyogo Furuhashi shine too, Celtic’s venture into the Japanese market appears to be paying dividends.
Many were blown away by Hatate’s display against Rangers, with Aston Villa ace John McGinn leading the plaudits.
Pundit James McFadden praised Hatate too, telling Sky Sports (02/02, 8:40pm) that he felt Hatate looked ‘different class’ against Rangers.
McFadden noted that Hatate is a ‘bargain’ for Celtic, with Ange Postecoglou’s knowledge of Japanese football working wonders.
“Hatate, he’s looked real class,” said McFadden. “What a bargain he is for Celtic because he looks different class,” he added.
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