The loss of Jota this summer is one that took every Celtic supporter by surprise. The Portuguese star was a huge fan favourite and his loss will be felt by Brendan Rodgers and the Celtic support.
But Jota’s exit may not be as bad as some people may think. At least that’s what former Celtic hero, Chris Sutton reckons.
The ex-Celtic striker says that although the exit of Jota was massive, there is one player that could use the setback to his advantage and make a push to be a regular starter for the Celtic first-team.
Sutton said [Scottish Daily Mail print edition page 71], “Jota’s a massive loss. Ange prided himself in having players who had different skillsets in forward areas. Celtic don’t have a like-for-like replacement.
“I think Abada’s an interesting one this season. Last year, his numbers were still good but he came off the bench. Maybe he will feel he has a point to prove.
“If he’s a centre-forward playing out wide, then his record is phenomenal.
“It’s like when Jota first signed. It’s an opportunity for him to come in and make his mark.”
Liel Abada is already showing signs of improvement at Celtic
The little Israeli winger has seen a new lease of life at Celtic under new manager, Brendan Rodgers. Abada was in devastating form in Japan after a starring role in Daizen Maeda‘s hattrick against Yokohama F Marinos.
Maeda and Abada linked up well in both fixtures in the tour and after the 21-year-old announced that he wants to stay at Celtic, it seems Rodgers is working his magic on him both on and off the park.
Abada’s goal return for Celtic has been impressive. In 47 appearances for the club last season he scored 13 and created nine. Considering the majority of those appearances were off the bench, that return is superb.
If Abada takes his preseason form into the new campaign, we could see him surpass those numbers under Rodgers quite easily.
Jota can’t be replaced. He was a really special player. But so is Abada. If he brings his strengths to the Celtic team he could go and continue to be a major player for the Hoops next season.
In other news, “He’s a terrific footballer”; Peter Grant impressed with Celtic fringe player’s preseason form
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