Ange Postecoglou hails Reo Hatate as Celtic boss jokes midfielder will give ‘easy’ verdict to right-back task
Hatate #Hatate
Ange Postecoglou reckons Reo Hatate will be telling him how easy it is to play in defence after his stunning showing against St Johnstone.
The Japanese midfielder, who normally shows his skill and composure in the Celtic engine room, was tasked with playing in the right-back role due to an injury suffered by Anthony Ralston in midweek that left the Hoops with no recognised right-sided defender. And the fan favourite not only did a stellar defensive job but also bagged two sweet goals to help Postecoglou’s men on the way to a big three points.
Postecoglou, who admits he had to get creative with his team selection, says he had no fear about putting Hatate in as the youngster did play in that slot previously as a youth and for his country. The Hoops boss also revealed his delight at the 4-1 victory and admits he has a ‘luxury’ with this side.
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He told Celtic TV: “Really pleased with the lads, I thought we were good today and looked dangerous all the time. We controlled the game and we could have scored more with a big of luck. I guess the luxury for me is that I have quality players to bring in and I thought it was important we used them today and that they all contributed.”
On Hatate, he said: “He’s set a pretty high bar for the other full-backs. He’s probably in there now telling me how easy it is to play there.
“Credit to Reo he was really disciplined, I had to be creative with it but the way we play we still have more of the ball. Whatever sort of defensive frailties we have he’s definitely good enough to do the job for us. He scored two goals but his general play was really good and composed. A credit to him.”
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