Liel Abada being out until next year is a big blow, but one we can live with…
Today’s rumour, as already mentioned by Paul Gillespie on The Celtic Star, is that Liel Abada is out until early next year, with the Israeli winger not expect to be back until January or even February. That is of course a huge blow for Celtic as Liel is obviously seen as an important part of Brendan’s squad – he’s started him in every game under the Irishman – but this is one injury we can live with.
New Bhoys Yang and Marco Tilio can both play in that area and let’s not forget about James Forrest. This is a big opportunity for all three of them, particularly for Yang though, who looks a real talent and is ahead of the other two in the current pecking order, judging by selections so far this season. The Australian winger is back fit having been signed whilst injured – a risky business that one – but the Celtic manager admitted on his interview with Celtic TV this week (watch below) that Marco will take some time to get up to speed.
Obviously we know what James Forrest can do, but it would be fair to say he’s not what he used to be, and Marco Tilio is still an unknown quantity until we get to see him play. My money’s on Yang to get the nod, but the fact we’ve got Marco and James and even fit again Mikey Johnston who can also play that position should be enough to cover for the loss of Abada.
And it may offer Rocco Vata a chance to break into the Celtic first team, despite his ongoing pathway frustrations at Celtic. Vata made his u21 debut for Ireland this week and scored twice.
That’s why Celtic have a big squad to prepare for situations such as this. Let’s hope those who are available can step up, starting with Yang on Saturday against Dundee at Celtic Park.
Just an Ordinary Bhoy
How many world class footballers can you spot in the photo below which is part of the new series on The Celtic Star?
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