Many Celtic fans have questioned the low number of starts that Liel Abada has gotten this season. The Israeli international has made an impact more often than not when he is on the pitch, but most often, they have come in the form of appearances as an impact substitute. Of course, he has the likes of Jota and Daizen Maeda ahead of him in the pecking order.
While Celtic fans may question his lack of starts, they are often delighted by the impact Abada has made when he comes on as a substitute. The recent match against St Mirren being a prime example of that, when he came off the bench at half time and helped change it in favour of the Hoops.
Ange Postecoglou praised the winger for his performance afterwards. He also rewarded him with a start against Hearts in midweek.
An injury to Maeda and Abada’s recent form may well see him getting more starts in the near future. Although, he was back on the bench when the Hoops went visiting Tynecastle Park this weekend, coming on as a substitute once again.
Celtic star Abada makes bizarre claim out of nowhere
As reported by the Daily Record, while speaking to Sport 5, Abada was asked about his lack of a regular starting spot and he said:
"“I’m coming on as a substitute, there are things behind it that people don’t know. I don’t want to go into too much detail.”"
Some suggestions have recently even been made about his lack of starts being linked with not agreeing a contract extension with Celtic. There’s still over three years remaining on his deal, but the Hoops were believed to be keen to hand him a new one.
Whatever the reason, it doesn’t seem to have impacted his form if the St Mirren display is anything to go by. Let’s hope his good performances continue for the Hoops. One also has to look at the competition ahead of him and most players would find it difficult to jump ahead of them in the pecking order.