Reo Hatate’s remaining time at the club is perhaps numbered, that is not a secret, but his absence from the first pre-season friendly in Dublin as the Hoops took on Shelbourne has been explained by Martin O’Neill…
The 28 year old playmaker’s exclusion from the Tolka Park clash was explained as an illness, with the Japanese international’s absence being due to a sickness bug. Not that’s passed Reo Hatate is set to join the rest of his teammates in Portugal later this week.
Martin O’Neill explained via The Herald: “Reo came late to proceedings. I think he was a bit ill at the time, so he missed out about four or five days. He’s doing a little bit of work and he’s catching up with us in Portugal.”
O’Neill also gave an update on the situation with Johnny Kenny, who suffered a knee injury whilst on loan at Bolton Wanderers, and hinted that he might be in his long term plans.
The Former Sligo Rovers striker was given a reprieve under O’Neill during his first stint as interim manager, and he excelled as he scored three goals, including a terrific header in the 3-1 win over Rangers in the League Cup semi final at Hampden back in November.
Although, unfortunately for the Irish international, he lost his way a bit – particularly under Wilfried Nancy – before being sent to league one Bolton on loan, helping them gain promotion to the championship.
The veteran Irishman stated “Johnny’s here at this minute. He’s got another three or four weeks before he’s fit,” O’Neill revealed.
“I think Johnny did very, very well at Bolton. I think that Bolton were very impressed with him.
“I must admit, I will see when we get people into the football club, then we’ll have a wee look to see where we are. He looks as if he’s got stronger looking as well in his time away.”
Martin O’Neill has shown that he can get the best out of Johnny Kenny and he could be in the manager’s plans as a back-up striker.
Just an Ordinary Bhoy
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