REO HATATE has revealed that he was only able to offer the ‘bare minimum’ in Celtic’s 1-0 semi-final win over The Rangers, but a discussion with Ange Postecoglou primed him for a key role in Celtic’s climactic conclusion to an unforgettable season.
The Japanese midfielder was forced off the pitch just 13 minutes into Celtic’s 3-1 victory over Hibs at Parkhead on March 18, right before the international break.
The absence of one of their favourite players in a series of crucial games, with both the Premiership title and the Scottish Cup at stake, understandably worried the fans.
Hatate was absent from four consecutive league matches as the champions triumphed over Ross County, The Rangers, Kilmarnock, and the home draw with Motherwell.
He completed his injury return, starting in the Scottish Cup semi-final at the end of April, which certainly did surprise a few fans, after more than a month on the sidelines.
Postecoglou’s decision to utilise the vigour and dynamism of the 25-year-old international in his team’s midfield, alongside captain Callum McGregor and Matt O’Riley, seemed somewhat of a gamble as the Greek-Aussie sought to ensure Celtic’s place in the final at Hampden.
Hatate opened up on his injury return, saying: [Sportiva]
“It’s a one-shot Cup semi-final, and the opponent is the rival Rangers.
“I feel that the work I have shown so far on the pitch is a proof of trust in the fact that [the manager]has nominated me as a starting player after returning from injury.
“There was a difficulty that my play was not as usual, partly because it was a big game for the first game after returning. However, for the sake of the team, I did the best I could at that time.
“If you don’t get the feel of the game and can’t contribute to the team on the offensive side, work hard and show your strength in defence. Press the opponent to pressure or drive them.
“Pick up the second ball and connect it to the attack. Or keep the ball and calm the game down.
“When I was asked if I could show my characteristics and strengths in my first match after coming back, it was hard to say that I could, but I thought and tried to play the minimum role that was required of me.
“Above all, a good offence starts with a good defence. I didn’t score, but a 1-0 win gave Celtic a ticket to the Final. Considering that it gave me the right to challenge for the domestic triple crown.
“I am glad that I was able to do the bare minimum. And then, in the match against Hearts, which decided the league championship, I switched back to my own play based on Mr. Ange’s words.”
