Celtic podcaster Ryan McGinlay has claimed that Reo Hatate’s vision is what makes him the best player in Scotland.
The Hoops midfielder played 82 minutes as Ange Postecoglou’s side fell to defeat in Germany on Wednesday night.
Despite finding themselves a goal down thanks to RB Leipzig’s Christopher Nkunku, Celtic roared back at the start of the second period through Jota’s equaliser.
But Andre Silva had the home side back in front just after the hour with a goal gift-wrapped by Joe Hart.
Silva then added his second to secure a 3-1 victory for Die Roten Bullen, but McGinlay was quick to praise Hatate during the game for his part in the Bhoys’ goal as he sliced through the Leipzig defence with a superb pass for Kyogo, who set up goalscorer Jota.
Taking to Twitter, he wrote: “Hatate’s vision is why he’s the best player in Scotland.”
Hatate’s vision is why he’s the best player in Scotland.
— Ryan McGinlay (@TheRyanMcGinlay) October 5, 2022
TIF Thoughts on Hatate and Celtic…
Will teams start to show transfer interest in Reo Hatate after the World Cup?
Yes
No
After arriving in January, the Japanese maestro became an instant hit at Parkhead as he netted a brace in a crunch Old Firm Derby that ultimately flipped the title race in favour of the Hoops last season.
Despite the result last night, the £2.25m-rated gem didn’t shy away from the task at hand.
He completed a joint game-high of three key passes alongside Leipzig’s David Raum, while also making one clearance and two interceptions, according to SofaScore.
Previously described as “breathtaking” on the Record Celtic podcast by Chris Sutton, the one-cap Japan international currently ranks ninth among his teammates for average match rating in the Scottish Premiership this season.
There is no denying Hatate has become a key cog in the wheel, starting seven of the club’s nine matches in all competitions, but whether he is the best player at the club or indeed in Scotland is up for debate. However, it certainly seems as though he is continuing to gain plaudits, even in a losing cause.