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.
