Reo Hatate made the difference after coming on against the Rangers, scoring the equaliser for Celtic. The overall quality of his play gave the Hoops a lift as well, after they had gone into the break a couple of goals down. The Japanese midfielder has come in for a lot of criticism this season. But on his day, he remains a vital player for Martin O'Neill's side.

In the long run, it is hard to see Hatate remain a Celtic player for much longer. He has been linked with a move away from the club going back to Ange Postecoglou's time as manager.

He has already completed four years as a Celtic player. There were rumours of an exit in January, but it did not happen. Don't expect that to be the case in the summer as well.

If or when Hatate leaves, Celtic will need to find a replacement to strengthen their midfield. Hatate might often face criticism, but in terms of quality, he is one of the best that the club have. It is only the consistency that seems to be missing at times.

Celtic might very well be looking for a replacement close to home. It is curious that a Scottish Premiership midfielder is being linked with a move to Parkhead, with a Hatate exit potentially looming.

According to Football Insider, Celtic are currently in an “open race” with Rangers to sign Kilmarnock midfielder David Watson in the summer transfer window. The two Glasgow clubs are neck and neck at the moment for the 21-year-old, who is set to become a free agent at the end of the season.

Watson would love the opportunity to play in the Champions League. That could end up proving to be the difference when it comes to who will win the race for his signature in the summer.

Still just 21 years of age, Watson has already appeared on 133 occasions for Kilmarnock at the senior level. He has scored 13 goals and provided 6 assists for them so far in his career. 

He is not the kind of player who you would expect to come in at Celtic and immediately be placed as a starter. But over time, he could develop into one, which would be the hope, if the Hoops do end up signing him.

Watson's contract is set to expire in the summer, which would make him an even more attractive target for clubs. Other than Celtic and the Rangers, there is also believed to be interest from clubs in England and Italy in his signature.

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