REO HATATE pulled up after only 35 seconds of Celtic’s 2-2 draw with Atletico Madrid at Parkhead last Wednesday.
The influential Japanese midfielder attempted to continue, but it was clear he had a hamstring problem and he was replaced by on-loan Benfica playmaker Paulo Bernardo in the seventh minute.
Forty-eight hours after the Euro deadlock, Brendan Rodgers was unable to put a date on an anticipated return to action, as CQN reported.
The Hoops boss admitted: “No definitive timeline, but he will definitely be out for a few weeks.
“We are waiting for it to settle down, waiting for the result and we will see where he is at.”
TEARS FOR FEARS…Brendan Rodgers comforts Reo Hatate as he comes off the pitch early in the Champions League match against Atletico Madrid.
Hatate, of course, was nowhere to be seen as the champions were held to a goalless draw by Hibs at Easter Road on Saturday as their lead at the top of the Premiership was eventually cut to five points following events at Ibrox 24 hours later.
Now a story has emerged that indicates the 25-year-old ace is suffering from a TORN hamstring which will keep him out for longer than originally feared.
A report in the Daily Record states: “Celtic are set to be without Reo Hatate until the New Year after the midfielder tore his hamstring against Atletico.”
There is the glaring lack of a quote from the manager or anyone else at Parkhead to substantiate the dramatic claim.
The fans have obvious concerns over the player’s fitness and the club will surely have to respond to the newspaper’s declaration.
Over to you, Celtic.
