Despite recent reports of discontentment, Luis Palma has dismissed the transfer claims and pledged his loyalty to Celtic. The Honduran attacking ace lost his starting status towards the closure of the previous campaign. But he is determined to return to his earlier self once the pre-season begins in the coming days.
“That’s the first time I have heard of that. I have no idea where that came from. I have only been at Celtic for a year. I have four years left of my contract. I am focusing on the new season and getting back to the level I was at when I first arrived. It won’t take much to get me back to that.”
Told Palma (as quoted by Football Scotland) who got extra days off before the pre-season camp due to his recent commitments with the national team.
The 24-year-old Honduras international enjoyed a scintillating start since completing a €4.75m summer transfer from Greek side Aris. But he mostly featured as a substitute over the last few months, particularly after Nicolas Kühn’s winter arrival from Rapid Wien.
Palma had his moments last season as he scored and assisted 12 times each in 40 appearances. Although he found the net against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League, Brendan Rodgers did not rely on him for the Old Firm clashes other than one meeting at Celtic Park on New Year’s Eve.
Why This Pre-season Would Be Crucial To Determine Palma’s Future At Celtic Park
Primarily right-footed, Palma prefers to operate from the left-hand flank as an inverted winger. He has also been deployed from the right, as an attacking midfielder or even ‘number 9’ while at his boyhood club Vida followed by Aris. However, Rodgers views him as an outright wide attacker with the majority of his outings being from the left.
Unlike Rangers, the Bhoys are going slow in terms of summer recruitment. They are yet to rope in a new face as the focus remains on finding a worthy successor of Joe Hart between the sticks. The discussions are on with Norwich City over striking a permanent deal for Adam Idah in the aftermath of a blistering loan. Also, Mikey Johnston could revive his Celtic career after a successful stint with West Brom south of the border.
Meanwhile, the return of the Republic of Ireland pair might further jeopardize Palma’s Parkhead future. With Daizen Maeda expected to get the nod for his work rate and vision, Palma could slip further down the pecking order unless he regains his form before the upcoming campaign.
