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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
Aidan Smith

Chris Sutton delivers Celtic transfer prediction as Reo Hatate's absence discussed

Chris Sutton has predicted that Brendan Rodgers will strengthen Celtic's strength and depth in January, insisting that is where the Scottish Champions have fallen short in the Champions League.

The Hoops have wilted in their European matches so far this term after battling well against the likes of Atletico Madrid, Lazio and Feyenoord early on.

Sutton also feels that a lack of depth has impacted results domestically, with Celtic looking leggy during a 0-0 draw with Hibernian at Easter Road yesterday.

Reo Hatate was missing for the clash through injury and despite admitting he was a loss, Sutton puts the disappointing result down to a lack of squad depth.

On Hatate he told Sky Sports: "I think he is. Celtic aren't the same team when Hatate isn't playing, so they miss him badly. The question is about strength and depth and they are going to have to get used to it because the games come thick and fast. Europe was a bit of a sore one, I thought Celtic were excellent in the first half.

"They tired a little bit in the second-half and I thought they brought a bit of their second-half performance into the Hibs game, if you like.

"There was a bit of fatigue there, once they made the changes Celtic looked a lot better and the passing was quicker and sharper. But they need to find a way to cope on both fronts and maybe the squad depth is something Brendan will look at in January."

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