Costa Rica defender Cristian Gamboa has hinted that he could be set for a shock stay at Celtic, as the 28-year-old revealed feels he plays well when given the chance.
Speaking to Celtic View,, as quoted by the Daily Record, the Costa Rican international indicated that his current priority is to be ready when both Celtic and his national team come calling.
“Every time I get a chance to play for Celtic, I feel I do well, so I know how important it is to always being prepared,” said Gamboa.
“Right now, I just want to play, be fit and be ready for the national team and for Celtic when the season starts.”
Gamboa, who only made three appearances for Celtic last season, stated previously that he would make a decision regarding his future after the World Cup, with an exit from Parkhead, looking likely after his lack of game time, but appears to have had a change of heart.
OPINION
Cristian Gamboa was an interesting talent coming out of the 2014 World Cup, where West Brom snapped him up. However, his performances for the Midlands outfit were not at the same level as were his during the summer tournament, and he quickly became surplus to requirements. It seems the same thing has happened in Glasgow, where the Costa Rican plays an extremely limited role within the squad, but it facilitates his main passion of playing for his national team. However, another impressive World Cup display could put the 28-year-old right back in the shop window, as it did four years ago, or could even persuade Brendan Rodgers to give him another shot at becoming a starter. This does not seem likely, but the defender could be using this tournament as an audition to get match fit ahead of the new season. Should Gamboa remain at Celtic, it is likely that he will only retain a similar role that he has earned thus far during his career at Parkhead.