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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
Ewan Paton

Watch as Jota is mobbed by teammates after first Al-Ittihad goal

This is the moment that Jota let all of his emotions out after scoring his first goal for Al-Ittihad.

The former Celtic star netted with a fine finish against Al-Wehda last night.

Like most games so far this season in the Saudi Pro League, the Portuguese winger started on the bench. It comes amid intense speculation regarding his future at the club, just two months after joining the Middle East side.

However, after an injury sustained by Karim Benzema just before half time, the 24-year-old was called upon by Nuno Espirito Santo.

On 67 minutes, Jota made his mark. He raced clear of the Al-Wehda defence as he burst into the box. He steadied himself as he took on his marker before getting his shot away to score his first in Al-Ittihad colours.

The goal clearly meant the world to Jota, who did not hold back with his celebration.

He jumped over the pitchside advertising hoardings and made a beeline towards the packed-out away following.

As well as sending the travelling fans into raptures, Jota's teammates supported him during his goal celebration as they surrounded him almost instantaneously. 

Jota and Benzema are believed to have struck up a close bond so far during their time in Saudi. 

And as the TV camera panned on the former Real Madrid star, he could be seen clapping the efforts of his teammate.

It comes after reports had suggested Jota would leave Al-Ittihad before the end of the transfer over an alleged fallout.

Saudi newspaper SABQ claimed that the real factor behind Jota being allowed to leave the club so soon after signing is that he "can't get along with some teammates."

The source alleged there is a dressing room divide within the Saudi Pro League champions. 

Meanwhile, Luis Palma last night took a step closer to completing his move to Celtic.

The Honduran international was pictured boarding a flight from Greece to Glasgow.

The 23-year-old - who is viewed as the replacement for Jota - is set to become Brendan Rodgers' latest signing at Parkhead this summer since his return as manager.

He will sign in a £3.5m deal from Aris Thessaloniki in Greek football. It is expected that an official announcement could be made as soon as today.

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