It was an afternoon of positives for Celtic on Sunday as they progressed to the last eight of the Scottish Cup. Kyogo and Daizen Maeda were among the goals for the Hoops in what was a professional performance.
The likes of Oh and Yang made their returns to the team, but one notable absentee was winger Liel Abada. The Israeli wide-man wasn’t even in the squad for the game.
In recent matches, he has looked a dejected figure. He went straight up the tunnel after a late win over Hibs on Wednesday evening, not getting involved in the jubilant scenes between the team and supporters post-match.
His lack of inclusion today raises several questions, particularly after speculation regarding his future in the January transfer window.
There is no getting away from the situation in Abada’s homeland. His country is in the midst of a conflict with Palestine, with the Celtic fans rightly insistent in their support for the Palestinian cause.
Putting two and two together, this has metaphorically hit home for Abada. The supporters, however, have never criticised the player and are consistent in their support for him.
Despite this, the player cannot help how he feels at the minute. Particularly after his dejection from the squad today, questions have naturally been raised about his long-term future.
