Reo Hatate Celtic Absence Explained

Martin O’Neill has confirmed that Reo Hatate did not miss Celtic’s game against Falkirk because of a potential transfer.

The Irishman instead revealed that the Japanese midfielder picked up a knock in training, which ruled him out of the 2-1 win over John McGlynn’s side.

He said: (TCW), “Well, it’s a good point, but Reo wasn’t fit to play. He wasn’t fit.

“He strained himself in training and ruled himself out of contention.”

Hatate was spotted in the stands, so he did not miss the game completely and was able to watch his teammates secure the victory.

Speculation over the playmaker’s future continues, with Hatate reportedly favouring a move to one of Europe’s top five leagues.

It remains to be seen whether the injury has any impact on a potential exit before Thursday’s transfer deadline, or whether the midfielder ultimately remains at Celtic.

Callum McGregor also missed the game against Falkirk, although his absence was not injury-related. The Celtic captain was instead ruled out by a stomach bug.

Given that Arne Engels has recently departed, and with questions over Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s ability to start week in, week out, it only adds to the pressure on the Celtic hierarchy to strengthen the midfield before the window closes.

With injuries, illness and departures all affecting the middle of the park, there is a case for Celtic bringing in more than one midfielder before Thursday’s deadline.