Reo Hatate made an immediate impression on his Burnley debut at the weekend, and manager Nicky Hayen believes the former Celtic midfielder can give his side something different in the weeks ahead.
Hatate provided the assist for Burnley’s opener in the 56th minute, helping his new side take a 1-0 lead at Turf Moor.
He was substituted seven minutes later in the 63rd minute, with Burnley eventually losing 2-1 after Bristol City scored in the 82nd and 91st minutes.
Despite the result, Hatate’s individual performance gave Hayen plenty to work with.
Speaking after the match, the Burnley manager said: (TCW), “You see that we now have players who can play perfectly between the lines, who can give that pre-assist but also assist, who keeps the overview. So it will be in our benefit in the upcoming weeks.
“So the goal was actually a nice example of it, but we also expect more.
“But you cannot expect more when you’re not 100 per cent top and this is what we try to push for every day.”
Hatate completed 20 accurate passes during his time on the pitch and created two chances for his new side.
His assist was the clearest example of what Burnley were hoping to add by bringing him in. Hatate has always been comfortable receiving the ball in tight areas and looking forward quickly, and Hayen clearly wants to use that between the lines.
The manager’s comments also suggest Burnley believe there is still another level to come once Hatate is fully up to speed.
For Celtic supporters, the debut was a familiar sight. Hatate was heavily involved in the build-up, found the final pass and showed the same awareness that made him such a key player during his time in green and white.
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