Reo Hatate Picks Out “Especially Memorable” Celtic Moment

Since Reo Hatate’s arrival in 2022, he has quickly become a crucial member of the team.

His role was particularly notable during Celtic’s Champions League victory over RB Leipzig, showcasing his importance to the squad while some questioned if he should be in the starting lineup.

Hatate’s journey at Celtic has had many flashpoints and moments of brilliance, but his first goal against Hearts was the moment that he felt accepted in the green and white hoops.

It was a superb long-range effort that beat Craig Gordon and saw Reo Hatate burst onto the scene. He went through a period where he was scoring every other week for Celtic, including two against Rangers in that infamous Wednesday night derby.

Speaking about the goal against Hearts, he said to Celtic TV:

“Every goal has a story and they all mean a lot to me,” said Hatate. “But if I had to pick, my first goal was Celtic was especially memorable.

“It came during my second match against Hearts. I believe it was a long-range shot. Scoring that goal was pivotal for me. It gave me a sense of calm and acceptance from my teaMMAtes, which made me feel truly integrated into the team.

“It was a very important goal for me playing Football in this team.”

Hatate has to be one of Celtic’s most underappreciated players in recent years.

When he was out last season, Celtic struggled through Games and lacked a flow in their midfield. Yet, when he made his comeback at the end of March against Livingston, everything just seemed to tick.

When he’s been left out this season, the same problem has occurred.

He’s naturally a quality player and he is a must for Rodgers to start when he’s fit.