Celtic really have to address the Liel Abada issue
There is one background issue that Celtic have to address, one that no-one could have predicted and without a simple solution.
As you watched the Celtic players celebrating after the final whistle at Easter Road two items stand out under close inspection.
While Adam Idah takes the acclaim there is a Palestine flag prominent among the supporters, of the players that finished the match Liel Abada is the only one missing from the post match celebrations.
It is a perfectly natural reaction, he is a 23-year-old a long way from home, the only Israeli in Scottish football, he is clearly uncomfortable. It is also natural for that unease to be reflected in Abada’s performances.
Could analyse this for hours after last night’s performance. Raw passion/agression from Mcgregor & Hart. Was same from Rodgers (not shown). No Abada. Kyogo detached & doesn’t acknowledge Rodgers. + Palma getting Idah involved. Fans have a massive part to play to win this title. pic.twitter.com/6qkUSDHJZg
— RaisedOnCeltic (@Raised_OnCeltic) February 8, 2024
More than a month after his return from injury it is difficult to recall a telling contribution that the winger has made. He is far from alone in that but there are special circumstances to his situation.
Teamwork and camaraderie is essential for success in sport, Abada’s uneasiness is bound to be noticed and impacting on some of his team-mates.
The situation in Gaza isn’t one that can be worked out or overcome, it is long term and not doing Celtic or the player any favours.
A loan move was suggested last month, there are still some transfer windows open with a loan until the summer surely the best option for all involved in an awkward issue not covered in Coaching Manuals or HR Best Practise.
I get that mate, but following on from the performance didn’t feel like a united team. Like I say, I could analyse it for hours. Abada probably wary of Palestine flags and being pictured.
— RaisedOnCeltic (@Raised_OnCeltic) February 8, 2024
