Reo shouldn’t be rushed back, no matter how badly we miss him…
It’s been suggested that Reo Hatate could be back in contention for a place in the squad, starting as soon as tomorrow for the clash with Dundee at Dens Park. That has come as a pleasant surprise as it was widely expected that he would be ruled out until after the winter break. Reo of course hasn’t played since picking up a hamstring injury in the early stages of the Champions League match against Atletico Madrid at Celtic Park back in October.
However according to Brendan Rodgers, Reo is now strong and fit, and showing up well in training, but is being carefully assessed as the coaching staff weigh up if it’s worth the risk of throwing him back into immediate action in such vital games.
For me it would be risky, even foolish to throw him back into action so quickly. Yes if he’s ready, but it’s a helluva risk especially with two physically demanding games pending in the coming week.
We do miss him badly, it’s obvious for everyone to see, but i want to see him back when he’s one hundred percent ready rather than risk losing him for another spell.
Just an Ordinary Bhoy
Hatate will take around 4 matches to get back into his usual form.
I base that on his first games for celtic.
Just like Maeda is just now with returning after injury, it takes a few matches to get fitness and muscle strength back to a decent level.
So Hatate has to stay out until fully recovered.