REO BRAVO

Kennedy hails comeback kid Hatate after masterful display v Livi as Hoops assistant boss vows to get midfielder in peak condition for vital visit to Ibrox

- CRAIG SWAN

JOHN KENNEDY hailed rampaging Reo Hatate after his stunning return helped Celtic surge back to the top of the Premiership.

The assistant boss poured praise onto the Japanese ace who fired straight into top form in spectacular style at Livingston.

Hatate had a huge hand in the opener in the 3-0 success and displayed all his usual diligence and class despite starting a first game since October.

The 26-year-old was smooth in his work at the Tony Macaroni Arena and Kennedy outlined the importance of his impressive return.

He said: "He was on it right from the first minute and he has been in training, which is why the gaffer thought to get him in the team quickly.

"He's been terrific the last few weeks. He came back in good condition and worked really hard.

"We had the game last week to give him some minutes and he was really good, so it was time to unleash him. I think you can see what he brings to the team."

Hatate is a difference-maker for the champions as Kennedy added: "I think that's always the case with your best players. He's shown that, in terms of big games and big performances.