Celtic will once again be without midfielder Reo Hatate for today’s trip to Kilmarnock, according to Sky Sports reporter Alison Conroy.

The Lowdown: Hatate absence

Hatate, who Gabby Agbonlahor labelled as ‘outstanding’ earlier this year, made his 22nd appearance in a Hoops shirt on the opening weekend.

Ange Postecoglou gave the Japan international the nod in midfield, however, he was withdrawn just after the hour mark and didn’t feature against Ross County the following weekend.

It was thought to be a knock for the 24-year-old, who was expected to be back in time to feature this weekend, however, that won’t be the case.

The Latest: Conroy’s post

Conroy took to Twitter on Friday to relay team news ahead of Celtic’s trip to Rugby Park.

The Sky Sports journalist said that Hatate won’t feature due to the artificial surface, while Stephen Welsh will be assessed.

The Verdict: Not ideal

It looks as if Celtic are playing it safe when it comes to Hatate, however, his absence isn’t ideal for Postecoglou. David Turnbull came in for Hatate last time out against Ross County alongside Callum McGregor and Matt O’Riley.

The Hoops had to wait until the final few minutes, when Turnbull was replaced at 1-1, to score a second and third goal, so it’ll be interesting to see how Postecoglou approaches the game today without Hatate once again.

The likes of James McCarthy and Aaron Mooy are options for the Celtic boss should he wish to go back to a 4-2-3-1 system instead of a flat 4-3-3 attacking formation.