Brendan’s touching Abada moment shows his wonderful man management skills…
Celtic v St. Johnstone – Liel Abada during the cinch Premiership match on August 26, 2023. Photo Steve Welsh
Brendan Rodgers yesterday revealed how he took Liel Abada out for a meal last Sunday after the manager’s surprise guest appearance at St Roch’s, showing his concern for the player amid the recent tragic events in the Middle East.
It was the Celtic manager’s way of putting his arm around the young Israeli and giving him some support and comfort at such a difficult time. It’s a perfect example of Brendan’s man management and while some might see it as a token gesture, I’m in no doubt it’s a genuine reflection of Brendan’s character and he very much cares for Liel, just like he does with all his players.
Matt O’Riley during the UEFA Champions League group E football match between Celtic and Lazio at Celtic Park on October 4, 2023. (Photo by ANDY BUCHANAN/AFP via Getty Images)
Indeed Matt O’Riley spoke of just that after Brendan’s arrival, when he told how it was a refreshing change to have a manager who would take time out to talk to you and take interest in your professional life as well as your personal life.
Look how that has turned out for Matt as he’s having the season of his life so far. Liel will benefit just as greatly from Brendan’s heartfelt gesture. If he didn’t know he was wanted before he sure will now. Although after recently signing a new deal I’m sure he was happy already, but this moment will make him feel better about time at Celtic.
Celtic v Aberdeen – cinch Premiership – Celtic Park Liel Abada and girlfriend Bar Rashti pose with the trophy after the cinch Premiership match at Celtic Park, on Saturday May 27, 2023. Photo Andrew Milligan
It’s something I’m sure we’ll notice when Liel returns to action.
At his media conference yesterday afternoon Brendan Rodgers was asked about Liel “as there has been a lot of talk about pressure being on him with some pundits back in Israel have told him what he should do in response to the banner that was up at the last game. Have you had a chat with him to make sure he is all right and is it a difficult situation?”
Brendan replied: “I went for a meal with Liel last week just to see what he was thinking and where he was at. I think he’s fine.
Liel Abada of Celtic scores to give Celtic a 0-1 lead. The goal was disallowed for offside but awarded by referee Kevin Clancy after a VAR check. Aberdeen v Celtic, Cinch Scottish Premiership – 13 Aug 2023 Photo Stuart Wallace/Shutterstock
“Naturally, he’s saddened like us all really by what is happening. It is a really divisive subject in terms of what is happening. In terms of Liel, he knows he has the support of every true Celtic supporter and every person here at the club is backing him and we are with him.
“We feel for those people who are really close to him and it is hard for a father to watch what is going on when you see some of those images. If you are so close to it and from his country then it is even harder. He is okay. He is just concentrating on getting himself fit and that is all he is concerned with.”
Brendan also confirmed that Abada is still on schedule to return to full fitness in December.
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