Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou has explained why Liel Abada was missing from tonight’s squad at home to Jablonec.
Abada was a surprise omission for the UEFA Europa League qualifying encounter, nowhere to be seen in the starting eleven or on the bench.
It raised concerns that he could be injured, or even suffered from a Covid-19 diagnosis, but it appears everything is okay.
Postecoglou explained to BBC Scotland pre-match that he was carrying a minor problem after training. It sounds like he’s missing simply as a precaution.
Speaking on Sportsound tonight [19:03], the Bhoys boss said: “Yeah, he pulled up a bit sore after training.
“To be fair to him, we’ve kind of thrown him in. He’s only 19 years old and it’s a long season ahead.
“It just made sense tonight, particularly with James Forrest being available, that we rest him up and hopefully get him right for the weekend.”
Abada has had a blistering start to his Celtic career. He’s netted two goals and assisted twice more in his first five appearances. So, his absence tonight was far from ideal.
However, Postecoglou is spot on. This is a case of better safe than sorry. There’s no need to risk the Israeli talent with James Forrest fit and ready to come in.
The sooner we get the 19-year-old back up to speed and in the match squad the better. But there are dozens of games left and we can’t afford a longer-term injury.
In other news, Luca Connell impresses for Celtic B and fans want to see more of him.
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