Hatate returns for Celtic as McGregor remains doubt ahead of Ibrox visit

It was a positive return for  Reo Hatate as he made a timely return to Celtic action in the Easter Sunday 3-0 away win over Livingston.

Hatate played a crucial part in the first goal that changed the flow of the game and inspired a second–half performance that delivered a 3-0 win.

The Japanese midfielder has been out since the new year in January following an injury in the 3-0 win over St Mirren, which was Celtic’s first game of 2024.

He played for over an hour in the win for the Hoops, and following the victory, he took time to share his thoughts in an exclusive chat.

Hatate revealed he was happy to return to the squad to help his side secure the vital three points that catapulted the Hoops to the top of her SPFL.

“It feels so good to be back after my injury, and I’m glad to help the team keep the momentum going.” He said.

Yesterday’s victory means that Celtic have now scored twenty goals in their last five fixtures and it is that kind of form that will leave the fans feeling fairly confident ahead of the trip to Ibrox next Sunday.

Celtic have been affected this season by injuries to a string of key players, including Hatate, Cameron Carter-Vickers, Alistair Johnston, and captain Callum McGregor.

Now, the latest news reveals Reo Hatate is back in the first team fold, and Cameron Carter-Vickers is also getting up to speed, as the Celts are looking in great shape ahead of the top-of-the-table clash.

However, a certain player remains a doubt ahead of Ibrox’s visit. Celtic skipper Callum McGregor suffered an injury and with this latest update, this means that the Celtic captain has missed the last three Scottish Premiership matches which has also left doubts on whether he will be fit for the Glasgow Derby as well.

Speaking in an interview with the club media channel, Celtic assistant coach John Kennedy has revealed McGregor hasn’t trained yet as all indications are pointing to the fact that he may face a late fitness test for the crunch tie at Ibrox.

For Celtic to pull off a result at Rangers they will need their captain fit and available. That’s not to say they can’t do it without him, but our chances very obviously increase with him in the side.

In the 36 games McGregor has faced Rangers, the Celtic captain has been victorious on 20 occasions, drawing five and losing just eleven. He has also scored four and created three goals in all those appearances. [Transfermarkt]

Having a midfield trio of McGregor, Matt O’Riley, and Reo Hatate would be a huge boost for the team, which is already at a massive disadvantage with no traveling supporters to back them at Ibrox.

A win would take Celtic four points clear at the top of the table and then put massive pressure on Rangers to win their game in hand at Dundee on the 10th of April.

Akinnifesi Olumide