Kevin Kyle has told Open Goal that Celtic midfielder Reo Hatate was “frightened” to press the Rangers midfield in Sunday’s Scottish Cup semi-final at Hampden Park. Rangers beat Celtic after extra-time, winning 2-1.
Hatate, 24, has starred for Celtic since joining the club in January from Japanese side Kawasaki Frontale. After a stunning start to life at Parkhead, he has died off somewhat. But he continues to be crucial to Celtic’s midfield.
Clocking up 17 appearances, he has had a hand in seven goals, forming a partnership with Callum McGregor and either Matt O’Riley or Tom Rogic. David Turnbull remains injured, while others have been overtaken.
Including the likes of James McCarthy and Yosuke Ideguchi. Ex-Rangers striker and Scottish footballing icon Kyle praised Rangers duo John Lundstram and Ryan Jack – claiming Hatate was scared to close them down.
“Hatate at times, he had some lovely touches. But sometimes he looked frightened to go and get in the mix of things and I think that was because Lundstram and Jack pressing tight. There was a wee bit of fear,” Kyle said.
Kyle on Hatate: Should Ange drop Celtic man after Rangers outing?
Postecoglou has a decision to make. Hatate has not recaptured his early form in a Celtic shirt – and it is hardly down to him. He said in an interview during the recent international break that he is tired, due to change.
A change of league, intensity, style of play. He has also gone straight from the J-League without a pre-season, to the Premiership. The £1.4million (Glasgow Times) signing will come good, but he needs a pre-season.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
