Reo Hatate has been simply superb this season. The Japanese midfielder has class in abundance and has got to be a front runner for player of the year. He’s a joy to watch and a vital part of our side. He’s quite simply the most technically gifted midfielder in the country.
Reo as we know pulled up injured just before the international break early on in the game against Hibs at Celtic park. It was clear to see that day and in the next couple of games how much we miss his ability in the middle of the park. Although we won all three games in his absence, it was clear to see how much we missed his influence.
Matt O’Riley has done well in his absence and is of course the player with the most assists in the league, but Reo brings us something more special. Reo and Callum McGregor are what makes our midfield tick. His talent is unbelievable, he’s got to be one of our best ever signings when you consider we payed just over a million quid for him. He’s worth well more than twenty times that amount now. Just like Kyogo, how he can’t get into the Japanese squad is a mystery. It’s quite frankly bizarre. Although their loss is ultimately our gain.
Ange has stated that Reo will be back soon, but next week at Kilmarnock will most likely be too soon, which is sensible considering it’s a to be played on Killie’s diabolical plastic surface against a team of hammer throwers. Although we will miss Reo again we should have more than enough to beat the Ayrshire side.
Hopefully he’s available for the home game against Motherwell just before the split, even if he’s only on the bench. He needs to be handled carefully as we want him fit and available for selection when it’s time for the Scottish cup semi final against Rangers. That’s the game we want him for, a fit and firing on all cylinders Reo Hatate is a big plus going into the game that can potentially take us closer to a dream treble.
Ange knows how important Reo is to his plans and will handle him with care, it’s important we don’t rush him back. He is very important to our end of season run in as we chase a treble.
JustAnOrdinaryBhoy – follow on Twitter @ordinarybhoy
