Reo Hatate will have Rangers running scared as Chris Sutton believes Celtic star's fitness race is key derby factor

Reo Hatate is facing a sweat to make Saturday’s Old Firm showdown but Chris Sutton reckons it’s not just Hoops fans who are keeping tabs on the playmaker’s fitness battle.

The Celtic legend believes everyone at Ibrox will be nervously looking on as well – as the Japanese star is the man they fear most. Sutton thinks Celts will be relieved if he makes it – and those of a Light Blue persuasion will breath a huge sigh of relief if he doesn’t. That’s how important Hatate has become to this Celtic side.

Ange Postecoglou has had plenty of star turns this season and the player of the year vote could be split several ways. But it’s Hatate who is out in front as far as Sutton is concerned and the 25-year-old being fit this weekend could be the key to opening the door on another title success. The Hoops can all but seal the deal on Saturday as a victory would leave Gers needing snookers with 12 points behind and seven games to go.

But Postecoglou has a few headaches going in with Hatate nursing a hamstring tug, Aaron Mooy on the mend, Greg Taylor limping off in Dingwall at the weekend and Liel Ababa definitely ruled out. The Lennoxtown treatment room will be busy but Hatate getting the green light will be a blow for Rangers even before a ball is kicked.

Sutton, speaking on 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