Reo Hatate’s injury is a blow, but it’s also a chance for David Turnbull and Odin Thiago Holm to shine…

Celtic’s midfielder Reo Hatate during a friendly football match between Japan’s Gamba Osaka and  Celtic at Suita City Stadium in the city of Suita, Osaka prefecture on July 22, 2023. (Photo by PAUL MILLER/AFP via Getty Images)

Reo Hatate limped off the 3-1 win over Aberdeen with a calf injury, and although not a major injury he is a doubt for the crucial first Glasgow derby of the season in three weeks time.

Reo of course was benched for the opening two games of the season, but he’s still a quality player and a valuable member of our squad.

Aberdeen v Celtic – cinch Premiership – Pittodrie Stadium Celtics David Turnbull has an attempt on goal during the cinch Premiership match at the Pittodrie. Sunday August 13, 2023. Photo Steve Welsh

His absence of course will give David Turnbull another chance to prove he’s worthy of a first team start. He was excellent on the opening day of the season against Ross county but was below par at Pittodrie.

He could have a rival in Odin Thiago Holm though, as the young Norwegian continues to impress in the time he’s been on the field.

SCO: Celtic FC v Athletic Club – Pre-Season Friendly Odin Thiago Holm of Celtic FC looks on prior the pre-season friendly match between Celtic FC and Athletic Club at Celtic Park on August 1, 2023, Photo Ricardo Larreina

He looks experienced beyond his years and has a lot of potential, a starting berth I’d surely only a matter of time.

Let’s hope both take their chance if called upon, it’s an excellent opportunity for both. Indeed let’s hope they grab it. Not only will it benefit them, it will improve the squad to have such fierce competition for places.

Just an Ordinary Bhoy