REO HATATE was one of three players that Ange Postecoglou brought over from the J-Leahie in January, joining Kyogo, who had been brought in six months prior.
Reo Hatate looked to be a hidden gem for the first couple of games. But, then, fatigue started hampering his performances, falling off towards the end of the season. This was to be expected. After all, he had just finished a winning campaign in the J-League with an Olympics in the middle of it.
One of Hatate’s early Celtic highlights is the brace he scored in his debut derby. In the opening half, the midfielder had netted the ball twice, with both shots coming from outside the box.
The 24-year-old admits he had goosebumps on that Wednesday night, revealing he had never experienced anything similar to it. [Football Scotland]
“I think people played against me differently after that, the marking became tighter — more physical.
“Players would catch me on the ankle more when they were going for the ball. I think the opponents watched the game and thought, ‘I have to do this now’.
“I am glad my years of work had prepared me for an occasion like that.
“But when it comes to what happened against Rangers with my goals, I think God was on my side!
“I remember getting goosebumps the first time I went on the pitch just before the kick-off.
“I was really nervous about that but then I was calm. I really felt the atmosphere and the fact that it blended into that pitch.
“Did I enter the zone that night? I think that’s a time you say that you can see the ball slowly or the opponent’s movements slowly.
“But I’ve no such experience, so what is the zone? I don’t know if that’s the case. However, I had a strong feeling and I think that these parts combined to make it a perfect match for me.”
Most fans feel similar. That night’s atmosphere was special; it was the first Glasgow Derby that fans could attend in almost two years. To add to the atmosphere, the game was played under the lights.
Fans are excited to see Reo Hatate next season after he’s had a long rest.
