Reo Hatate talks about the Celtic turning point that demonstrates fans’ best form is yet to come following ‘tough times’
The Japanese ace was excellent against Kilmarnock, but he is now focused on international duty with Japan.
Reo Hatate believes his best Celtic performance is still to come.
The Parkhead star was at his magnificent best in the weekend’s win over Kilmarnock. Hatate believes his performance this season can be a personal turning point following a difficult start due to injury and a lack of form.
The 25-year-old was outstanding for Ange Postecoglou’s previous boss Ange Postecoglou for 18 months before signing a new long-term contract with Brendan Rodgers. When asked if there was more to come from him after his Man of the Match performance against Killie, Hatate replied, “Yes.” We have an international break coming up, so we must concentrate on the national team and playing for Japan. Following that, there will be further league games. It goes like this. Going one at a time. We’re all just trying to improve our performance. That was better [against Kilmarnock].
“Even though I had difficult times, this can be a turning point for me and, hopefully, I can perform very well.”
Following the win over Killie, Rodgers praised the Asian star, saying, “This was the first game that Reo came alive for me.” That’s the grade. The engine cannot be turned on and off. To compete at the highest level against the best players, you must show up every week.
“That is Reo’s challenge. He’s not a young man; he’s 25. But, at that level of intensity, everything else becomes second nature to him. It is my responsibility as a coach to assist him in remaining there.”
