Kyogo Celtic injury question swerved by Japan boss as he hints at Reo Hatate switch up

Japan boss Hajime Moriyasu reckons Reo Hatate has made an instant impact at Celtic after his international call-up.

Hatate could earn his first full international caps across the double header against Australia and Vietnam after being call up alongside teammate Daizen Maeda.

The midfielder has made a quick-fire impression on the Parkhead support after goals against Aberdeen and Rangers following his January arrival from Kawasaki Frontale.

That has saw Moriyasu turn to Hatate for the crucial World Cup qualifier double header.

However, he may be pushed out of the playmaker role he has become accustomed to at Celtic - with Ange Postecoglou offered some advice on his position.

Speaking after announcing the squad, Moriyasu said: "Hatate's adjusted to playing in the Premiership and living in Scotland, and looking at his performances I decided to call him up.

"I think he'll best be able to play the inside-half role he's been in for Celtic. But I also think he can play at other positions."

The Japan Times also report that the Japan boss refused to address the injury status of Kyogo Furuhashi.

Furuhashi - who has scored 16 goals in 26 Celtic appearances - hasn't featured since limping off early in their Boxing Day win at St Johnstone.

Postecoglou has been coy on the injury status on the fan favourite, and Moriyasu followed suit after leaving the striker out of the squad once again.