Luis Palma responds to Brendan Rodgers’ comments on improving at Celtic

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Celtic winger Luis Palma has been discussing his first season in Scotland and comments from manager Brendan Rodgers about upping his levels.

After beating DC United 4-0 on Saturday night, Rodgers spoke about Palma’s debut campaign in Glasgow.

The manager noted how impressed he was with Palma adapting to a new footballing culture and country, also praising his contribution of ten goals and ten assists.

However, he also stated that the winger can still elevate his game and efforts for the team, specifically requesting that he look to increase his pressing intensity.

When Rodgers’ comments were put to him by the Honduran newspaper La Prensa [22/07 print edition], Palma talked up his dealings with the manager and vowed to do what he could to help team performances.

Luis Palma wants to push on to new heights at Celtic

The Bhoys attacker said: “Our rela­tion­ship is very good, I thank Brendan. He was the one who gave me the oppor­tun­ity to be at the club. If he said that, then I will keep improv­ing to help the team, which is the most import­ant thing.

“The adapt­a­tion [to Celtic] was very import­ant for me. Since I arrived I have learned how to adapt to the cli­mate, the city, the people and the team – which is a great one.

“My expect­a­tions are the same to keep grow­ing as a per­son and a player, last sea­son I scored 10 goals and 10 assists, now I hope to do more.”

Palma feeling good in Celtic pre-season

Palma was delighted to get back on the pitch in Celtic colours during the defeat of DC United. The Honduran was lively in the first half as the Bhoys’ wide players consistently exploited the American defensive line.

The 24-year-old continued: “The score was reflec­ted in what the match was. It’s import­ant to start the tour on the right foot, I’m happy with the per­form­ance. Per­son­ally I feel very good and happy to get back on the ball.

“It will be a nice game and exper­i­ence against City and Chelsea, where I hope that I and the whole group can have a great game and learn from those teams.”

Everyone wants to see the Palma that lit up the first half of Celtic’s 2023/24 season with big goals in domestic competitions and the Champions League.

With a full year in Scotland now behind him, the winger is well-placed to find consistency and make a renewed push into Rodgers’ plans. Especially if he’s willing and eager to listen to feedback.