Liel Abada post Celtic relief as winger reflects on 'difficult time in Scotland' after first MLS goal

Liel Abada admits he was relieved to score his first MLS goal for new club Charlotte FC after a "very difficult time in Scotland".

The ex-Celtic star completed a bumper £10million move Stateside last month and netted his first goal in last night's 3-2 win over Toronto. It was the Israeli's first goal since finding the back of the net for Celtic in August's 3-1 win away to Aberdeen. Now, Abada is eager to kick on in America after ticking off his first milestone.

He said: "I have been waiting for this goal for a very long time. I had a very, very difficult time in Scotland, now I'm happy and I just wanted to enjoy it. We are happy with the three points which are the most important. I am very pleased that I scored. Now my aim is to score more goals here.

"We have some very good players in attack, there is good chemistry between us. We work hard and know what we have to do. The coaching team here teaches us a lot."

Abada had become unsettled in Glasgow due to Celtic fans' support for Palestine, with major figures in his homeland - including his national boss - urging the 22-year-old to quit Parkhead. However, the 22-year-old is determined to get back to his best and manager Dean Smith applauded the club record signing's impact.

Ex-Aston Villa and Norwich City boss Smith said: "Liel came to the party today. He is a humble guy, you could see how important this goal was to him. His impact on the game was great."