An update has been provided on the fitness of Celtic midfielder Reo Hatate. The Japan internationalist was withdrawn 36 minutes into his nation’s 3-1 win over Bahrain in the last-16 of the Asian Cup a few days ago.
He appeared to be holding his leg and according to Japanese outlet Gekisaka (via The Scottish Sun), Hatate has torn a muscle in his calf. As a result, he will be out of action for the next four to eight weeks.
For the remainder of their Asian Cup campaign, Hatate will remain with Japan and begin his rehabilitation with the national team rather than immediately return to Celtic.
Japan’s Reo Hatate receives instructions from coach Hajime Moriyasu before being substituted on REUTERS/Thaier Al-Sudani
This comes as somewhat of a surprise, although the 26-year-old is remaining loyal to his nation and will want to be part of the squad should Asian Cup glory be secured.
Hatate would become a legend regardless of his fitness if Japan got their hands on the silverware, but there is no getting away from how big of a blow his injury and timescale regarding recovery from it is for the Bhoys.
His lack of presence in the team has been noticeable throughout the current campaign, with his willingness to take risks in terms of forward passes and ability to unlock stubborn defences being hugely missed.
This news is in no way encouraging, particularly after the champions let go of David Turnbull on deadline day. His exit and Hatate’s injury not only cements Paulo Bernardo’s place in the team, but paves the way for opportunities for other players such as Odin Holm and young Daniel Kelly.
UPDATE 9:55am: There is a dispute over the translation of the Japanese article. Some are saying it reads calf strain rather than calf tear. If it’s a strain he will be back quicker. We await Brendan Rodgers press conference to get some clarity.
