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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
Ewan Paton

Ange Postecoglou praises Reo Hatate after impressive full-back performance

Ange Postecoglou highlighted Reo Hatate for special recognition after his side's 4-1 win over St Johnstone this afternoon.

The Japanese midfield star showcased his versatility today as he filled in at right-back for the Premiership encounter.

Josip Juranovic is still unavailable after his World Cup involvement, and Anthony Ralston picked up a knock earlier this week.

But Hatate slotted into the unfamiliar position with ease, even managing to score a brace.

Postecoglou said Hatate has now set the bar for his traditional full-backs.

He told Celtic TV: "Yeah, he's set a pretty high bar for the other full-backs. He's probably going to tell them how easy it is to play there. It was a credit to Reo as well, he was really disciplined.

"As I said, I think I had to be creative with it but the way we play we still have the ball whatever sort of defensive frailties it may have had I still felt he was disciplined enough to do the job for us and also give us something going forward. I think he did that.

"He scored two goals when his general play was really good and composed. Again, credit to him."

On the performance itself, the manager was much happier than he was after their win during midweek. 

The Australian was thrilled to send the Celtic fans home happy for Christmas. 

He said: "Really pleased. Firstly, glad we're sending our supporters home happy to enjoy Christmas Day tomorrow with their families, hopefully everyone has a happy and safe one.

"But yeah really, really pleased with the lads. I thought were really good today. From the start controlled the game, we looked dangerous all the time.

"We scored four but could have had a few more with a bit of luck. Credit to the boys I thought it was a good performance."

James Forrest and Daizen Maeda started in the wide areas for the hosts, as Postecoglou made changes to his team from their victory over Livingston. Jota and Liel Abada dropped to the bench as a result. 

The boss was happy with their efforts. He added: "With Jimmy [James Forrest] and Daizen coming in and Aaron [Mooy]... I think it was important to freshen it up a little bit because it is such a quick turnaround.

"Coming off a long break, having three games within a short space of time was always going to test us. I guess the luxury for me is that I have quality players that I can bring in.

"I thought it was important we used them today and I thought they all really contributed well."

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