Reo Hatate Speaks Out Ahead of Possible New Position with National Team

Reo Hatate was hailed as a versatile player when he arrived in Scotland, something that was actually mocked by Alex Rae on Clyde 1 SSB.

He’s predominantly played in midfield for Celtic, positioning to Matt O’Riley’s left side, but he has played a few Games at full-back and has actually scored from there.

Brendan Rodgers has only used him as a midfielder, but, he’ll be keeping a keen eye on the Japanese national team in the coming weeks, with Hatate being used in a number of positions in training, ahead of their World Cup Qualifiers.

Japanese outlet Ultra published a write-up which included some insights from training. They reported, “During training, he was used in various positions, including inside half, attacking midfielder, and winger.”

During a press conference, Reo Hatate was asked about this, and it was all positive from the midfielder, who said, “I think it’s great to try new things,” he said to Ultra. “I want to organize my thoughts clearly, both as an individual and as a team, and express that on the pitch.”

It’s good to have someone who can be deployed in various positions within the team, especially if we see another injury crisis.

We knew coming to Celtic that the Japanese international had played in defence and as a striker but was seen as a midfielder by then boss Ange Postecoglou, but if he does well in another position with Japan will Brendan Rodgers have a rethink?