Luis Palma finally gave his national coach something to smile about. The Celtic loanee set up Anthony Lozano’s goal as Honduras swept aside Haiti 3–0 in their World Cup qualifier on Monday night, a result that lifts them to the top of their group and quiets some of the noise around the winger’s future.
Palma’s inclusion had been under scrutiny back home, with boss Reinaldo Rueda recently hinting the forward’s club situation needed “clarity” if he was to remain central to the national setup.
Palma, currently on loan at Lech Poznań from Celtic, answered in the right way, by contributing directly to the scoreline.
His assist for Lozano’s strike summed up what he can bring when he’s on it: quick movement, vision, and composure under pressure. A clever run down the left opened up space, and his low cross was buried by the Cadiz man to double Honduras’ lead before half-time.
It’s no secret the 25-year-old’s Celtic career is at a crossroads. Rueda has publicly backed the idea of a permanent move to Poland, suggesting it would be “a win-win” for player and country. For now, Palma seems intent on proving he can deliver regardless of where he plays his club football.
At Lech Poznań, he’s had flashes of the flair that made him an exciting arrival in Glasgow, and this assist on international duty will do his confidence no harm at all.
Back in Glasgow, Celtic fans will be keeping tabs. A sharp, motivated Palma is good news either way, whether he returns to Lennoxtown next summer or seals a permanent move.
Simply put, this was a reminder of what he’s capable of when trusted and given freedom. If he keeps turning in performances like that, he’ll force both Rueda and Celtic to take notice.
