REO HATATE has been ruled out of Celtic's trip to Ross County.

Ange Postecoglou this afternoon confirmed the Japanese international is not available.

Hatate had started in the opening day win over Aberdeen on Sunday but was withdrawn after 66 minutes.

Speaking after the win at Parkhead, Postecoglou had commented: “He copped a couple of hard knocks, to be fair.

"He was a bit sore after the game.”

But now, it has been confirmed Hatate will miss the match in the Highlands.

He said: "Reo has been in rehab all week. He picked up a couple of knocks, felt a bit of a muscle strain so he's been in rehab.

"He had a bit of a run today but tomorrow he will miss out. Everyone else is okay after last week."

The manager did confirm an injury boost for the Hoops though, with Carl Starfelt available for selection again.