Scottish pundit makes 'huge' Abada claim after latest Celtic news
Alan Hutton has insisted Liel Abada has a "huge opportunity" to write his name into the Celtic history books in Sunday's Scottish League Cup final.
The former Rangers defender, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 20-year-old needs to "step up to the plate" with more experienced stars missing through injury.
As quoted by Clyde 1 SuperScoreBoard on Tuesday (December 14), Ange Postecoglou confirmed James Forrest is a major doubt for the final versus Hibernian.
The winger is still being assessed after limping off against Motherwell last weekend (12 December).
Kyogo Furuhashi and Mikey Johnston are also doubts, while Jota has already been ruled out.
With attacking options limited, Hutton admitted Abada has a big chance to make a name for himself at Parkhead.
Discussing Forrest's injury blow, Hutton told Football Insider's Russell Edge: "Forrest has been there, done it, bought the t-shirt. He's got a pocket full of medals.
"You do need that big-game experience. He'll be there, he will probably travel with the squad and he can keep the squad going.
"When you've got people like Turnbull and Rogic, who were playing at a high standard, Abada needs to step up to the plate a little bit with Jota out.
"These are situations for players to come in and shine. We are talking about a cup final here. If you can't get up for that, you won't get up for anything.
"It's a huge opportunity for Abada to go and stamp your authority in a big game. There's going to be a huge crowd, a lot of people watching.
"So take it by the scruff of the neck and just go for it. I mean, it's a cup final, you have to be up for it."
With injuries blighting the Celtic squad, Abada has started the last two league fixtures.
He scored his eighth goal of the season in Wednesday's (15 December) 2-1 win over Ross County.