Liam Scales’ journey at Celtic has been nothing short of remarkable. A year ago, his future at the club appeared uncertain.
Brendan Rodgers’ return to Celtic last summer coincided with a period of transition, following Ange Postecoglou’s departure to Tottenham.
For Scales, who had just completed a loan spell at Aberdeen, the prospect of even being a squad player seemed far-fetched, let alone a regular starter.
But football thrives on moments, and when injuries ravaged Celtic’s defensive options, Scales was handed an opportunity.
The Republic of Ireland international grabbed it with both hands, growing steadily in stature and proving his worth to the team.
His progression was underlined by his vital role in Celtic’s League Cup final triumph over Rangers at Hampden on Sunday.
Pat Bonner’s Criticism Over Scales’ Omission
The build-up to the final included debate over Scales’ place in the starting XI. Pat Bonner, the former Celtic goalkeeper, voiced his disappointment over Scales being left out of the initial lineup in favour of Auston Trusty. Speaking to BBC Radio Scotland, Bonner said:
“I have spoken plenty of Scales, obviously, I am disappointed that he isn’t in the team (starting).
“Of course, as an Irishman, I want to see our international players playing, but I think Trusty has done very, very well.
“It took him a while to get up to match fitness and up to the speed of the game. But now I think he looks very comfortable. He is also good in the air.”
Trusty, who has quickly established himself under Rodgers, was preferred to partner Cameron Carter-Vickers in defence. However, his performance in the first half fell short, and with Celtic trailing Rangers, Rodgers made a bold decision at half-time.
Tactical Switch That Changed the Game
Many assumed Greg Taylor, whose mistake led to Rangers’ opening goal, would be the player substituted at the break.
Instead, it was Trusty who made way for Scales, a decision that raised eyebrows initially. Explaining the substitution after the match, Rodgers told Premier Sports it was purely tactical:
“We looked so clunky and couldn’t get through the pitch,” said Rodgers.
“We looked a wee bit edgy. So I didn’t like that, how we cleaned the game up. Scales has been brilliant, to be fair.
“He’s clean and Auston Trusty did really, really well. I just felt that he’s had the experience of playing in finals for us now, Liam. I just made that change and he came in and he was able to clean the game up.”
Rodgers’ decision proved pivotal. Scales brought composure and balance to Celtic’s defence, helping the team regain control of the match.
His calmness on the ball and ability to read the game were instrumental in turning the tide, as Celtic went on to secure another famous victory over their Glasgow rivals.
Scales’ Rising Influence
Scales’ journey from being a loaned-out player to a key figure in a cup final highlights his resilience and ability to seize opportunities.
With Rodgers praising his performances and trusting him in high-stakes situations, the Irishman’s stock continues to rise.
His influence in the League Cup final is a testament to his development and underscores why he remains an important part of Celtic’s future.
