The Scottish Cup semi-final is just around the corner, and Celtic are gearing up to take on our old foes, The Rangers. However, there is some concern over the fitness of Reo Hatate, our Japanese midfield sensation. The talented 25-year-old has been out of action since before the last international break, missing several crucial games for the Hoops.
According to reports from Football Scotland, Ange Postecoglou has confirmed that Hatate may not be fit enough to play in the upcoming derby clash. While this would be a significant loss for Celtic, there is some hope on the horizon. Postecoglou has hinted that Tomoki Iwata could be the man to fill Hatate’s boots, and he’s ready to step up to the challenge.
Despite missing several games due to injury, Hatate has been a standout performer for Celtic this season. He’s been so impressive that many believe he’s in with a chance of scooping Player of the Year. Losing him for such an important match would be a major setback for the Hoops, who will be eager to avenge their semi-final loss to The Rangers last season.
However, Postecoglou’s faith in Iwata should give Celtic fans some comfort. The ex-Yokohama F Marinos star has been biding his time, waiting for his opportunity to prove himself in the Scottish Premiership.
The derby clash could be just the chance he needs to show what he’s capable of, and we have no doubt that he’ll be up for the challenge. He came on as a sub during the 3-2 win at Celtic Park and now might get the nod from the start at Hampden. Let’s hope that Celtic can pull off a win and advance to the Scottish Cup final, with or without Hatate.
Ange said: “Tomoki has always been a really hard worker. He has always pushed himself on and off the field, with the extra gym work he does. I had an advantage in that I worked with him before at Yokohama F Marinos and knew what I was getting.
“I knew that he would impress the lads here at Celtic when he signed because he has a great attitude. He trains hard every day and works hard in the gym. He looks after himself on and off the field. Tomoki is a tremendous athlete and has played so many positions in his career.
“He started off as a wing-back and then turned into a central defender in a three, where he was able to bomb forward. Tomoki then played as a centre back and a No.6 in a deeper midfield role. But because of his all-round skillset, both physically and technically, I think he’s going to be one of these midfielders who is going to be really hard to handle for the opposition.
“Tomoki isn’t just one specific type of midfielder, he’s a bit of a hybrid. He can play in different areas and really contribute to the team. We eased him in and I tried to be conservative with his game-time as he came off a full Asian season. I knew that fatigue could set in earlier in the year but we eased him in.
“We did the same with Yuki Kobayashi and Oh Hyeon-gyu and now, with the remaining league games and the cup semi, I think they will be strong and really able to contribute.”
The game kicks off at 1:30pm on Sunday.
