DURAN’S RAPID CELTIC IMPACT

Camilo Duran makes Colombia debut as Celtic striker earns first senior cap

Camilo Duran has officially become a Colombia international after making his senior debut in their 1-0 friendly defeat to Paraguay in New Jersey.

The Celtic forward was introduced late in the contest at Sports Illustrated Stadium, with Colombia boss Nestor Lorenzo sending him on for Jhon Arias in the 88th minute.

Duran had only a handful of minutes to make an impact and was unable to prevent Colombia from slipping to defeat.

The match was decided shortly after half-time when Hugo Benitez found the bottom corner with a well-struck low effort.

Despite his limited involvement, the appearance represents another significant milestone for Duran since his move to Celtic.

The £6million signing from Qarabag has already made an encouraging start to life in Glasgow, scoring five goals for the Hoops since his arrival.

The 22-year-old will now hope to build on his first taste of senior international football when he returns to Celtic duty.

His brief cameo means Duran should be fresh and available for Martin O’Neill when Celtic return to Premiership action against Motherwell at Fir Park next weekend.

For the striker, earning his first Colombia cap is another positive step in what has already been a promising beginning to his Celtic career.