Rangers fear Celtic star Reo Hatate claims Chris Sutton and Michael Beale's men would be relieved if he doesn't start in the derby.
The Parkhead hero insists the Japanese playmaker has the Light Blues running scared ahead of a crucial Old Firm clash on Saturday that could have major permutations for the destination of this season's Scottish Premiership title. Celtic and Ange Postecoglou are in pole position with nine points the healthy lead they possess and haven't lost to their rivals this campaign. Meanwhile Beale and co do remain unbeaten in 2023 in league action.
It is sure to be a cracker at Parkhead with Rangers looking to end a spell of nearly three years without a win in the east end of Glasgow but Postecoglou could be without key star Hatate. Sutton insists should the midfielder and partner Aaron Mooy not make the game, there would be an audible sigh of relief from the away dressing room due to the fact they 'fear' Hatate.
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He the Record Celtic podcast, said: “I don’t know how fit they are, that’s the biggest issue. Mooy had a bit of a slow start but he’s been a really important signing for Ange Postecoglou.
“The manager keeps his cards close to chest when it comes to injuries so you never really know. In terms of Hatate, I think he’s been Celtic’s most important player this season. When he is in the side, Celtic seem a lot quicker moving through the midfield. McGregor is so important at starting the moves but Hatate is really integral.
“At this moment in time, Hatate is my player of the year in Scotland. I know Kyogo has scored the goals and Cameron Carter-Vickers has been an absolute rock.
"But Hatate is the key man. He’s also the man Rangers fear most – I really believe that. It would be a relief to the Rangers team if he doesn’t make it.
"If he’s not fully fit I wouldn’t risk him. Celtic can afford to lose three games and still win the league so there would be no point in risking further injury and missing more games. There’s also the Scottish Cup semi-final to think about.”
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