Brendan Rodgers has provided a fitness update on Reo Hatate as Celtic prepare to return to league duty against Hibernian at Celtic Park tomorrow.
Rodgers spoke to CeltsAreHere earlier today, confirming that Hatate would be assessed further ahead of the weekend fixture. The Irishman suggested there were no new injury concerns aside from Hatate, but flagged a slight hamstring issue that may keep the midfielder out.
The 27-year-old has dealt with hamstring problems in the past, and any sign of tightness will be handled carefully by the medical staff, especially with important domestic and European fixtures on the horizon. Hatate has become a key part of the side’s midfield structure when fit, and his availability could influence how Rodgers sets his team up.
Celtic come into the Hibs game looking to carry momentum from a solid midweek showing in Europe, but Rodgers is mindful of managing his squad’s fitness as the fixture load increases.
He said: “We’ve got Reo as a question mark, but apart from that, we’re virtually the same.
“He felt a bit tight in his hamstring, so we’ll just have to monitor that, and I’ll find out this afternoon where he’s at.”
Hatate’s potential absence would open the door for the likes of Luke McCowan or Arne Engels to step in, depending on the shape Rodgers opts for. The Irishman has already spoken about the need to utilise the full squad during this demanding stretch of the season.
Celtic’s midfield has looked more settled in recent weeks, and keeping players fresh will be crucial as the team juggles league, cup, and European duties. With Hatate’s injury history, there’s no sense in taking unnecessary risks this early in the campaign.
Rodgers has made it clear he’s keen to avoid setbacks that could turn minor niggles into longer-term issues. Whether Hatate features against Hibs may ultimately depend on how he responds during final assessments.
The Hoops boss will be hoping for positive news later today, but he’s already planning with alternatives in mind should the midfielder be ruled out.
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