After the disaster that was the Wilfried Nancy era, lasting just 33 days and producing merely two wins in eight games across all competitions, Celtic have rediscovered some of their form following the return of Martin O'Neill. Admittedly, the performances have not always been up to the mark. But the Hoops have been getting the results.

In O'Neill's second run as interim boss, with this one set to run until the end of the season, Celtic have won seven of their nine games. The other two they have drawn, and in both those instances, they saw a player sent while in a winning position.

Hatate is one of those who got sent. It was in the Europa League away trip against Bologna, when Celtic were 1-0 up. Incidentally, it was the Japanese midfielder who had put the Hoops ahead before being shown a red card for a silly challenge.

Overall, Hatate's performances have not been up to the mark for quite some time now and it might be time for a change of scenery for him. Celtic did add to their midfield strength this winter by adding Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain to their ranks as a free agent.

That being said, they turned down an offer as high as £25 million for Arne Engels in the winter. It is likely that he will be allowed to leave in the summer if such a bid arrives again at their table. Will Celtic let two key midfielders leave in the same window? If they do, the midfield department will require a major revamp.

Another player who has not been performing at his best level for a little while now is Daizen Maeda. It is believed that he was close to leaving in the summer, and eager to be on the move as well. But Celtic blocked the exit, having already parted ways with Nicolas Kuhn in the same window.

Both Hatate and Maeda have been tipped to leave in the summer window. According to 67 Hail Hail, Andy Walker said on The Go Radio Football Show: “I mean, I think when you look at all the Japanese players and what they’ve contributed, I think even Maeda, who was really disappointed that he didn’t get that chance to move when he thought everything was done and dusted, I think those players have probably come to the end of their time.

“I think this will be their last season at Celtic, both Hatate and Maeda. But you want to try and go out on a high.

“I know there’s going to be a huge turnaround in the summer, but before then, if you’re in pole position to get as many games as you can, you want to try and contribute and make it another season to remember.”

Both Maeda and Hatate have been brilliant for Celtic during their time with the club. They were signed in Ange Postecoglou's first season at Parkhead, and have played starring roles in four league titles since then.

It is very clear that their time in Glasgow is coming to an end though. Let's hope they can end with another Premiership triumph.

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