Celtic dropped points in the Scottish Premiership for just the second time in 16 matches after being held to a goalless draw by Dundee United at Tannadice Park on Sunday.
The Hoops’ only other draw this season came against Aberdeen in a dramatic 2-2 encounter where they squandered a 2-0 halftime lead. Despite these occasional setbacks, Celtic remain nine points clear at the top of the table.
Brendan Rodgers had to manage without several key players for the Dundee United clash. Nicolas Kuhn, Auston Trusty, and Cameron Carter-Vickers were all sidelined due to injuries, affecting the team’s usual lineup.
Celtic’s defensive performances this season have been exemplary, thanks in large part to the contributions of players like Trusty and Carter-Vickers.
The team has conceded just four goals across 16 league matches, keeping an impressive 13 clean sheets. New signing Kasper Schmeichel has also made a tremendous impact between the posts.
In the heart of the defence, Carter-Vickers, Liam Scales, and Trusty have been consistent performers, each playing a vital role in maintaining Celtic’s defensive solidity. All three have started at least nine league matches, underlining their importance to the squad.
Statistics further highlight their contributions. Liam Scales leads in aerial duels won per game (6.1) and clearances (4.6), while Trusty shines in tackles per game (1.8) and blocks (0.8). Carter-Vickers, meanwhile, has excelled in interceptions (1.6).
The trio’s collective effort demonstrates the depth and balance in Celtic’s defensive setup, as no single player dominates every aspect of the game.
Time for Stephen Welsh to Move On?
Despite the overall strength in defence, one player who appears to be surplus to requirements is Stephen Welsh.
The Scottish defender started in the stalemate against Dundee United, helping to secure a clean sheet, but this was his first league appearance of the season.
Welsh has mostly been a spectator, featuring as an unused substitute in 13 of the last 14 matchday squads. His only other start this season came in a League Cup tie against lower-tier Falkirk.
Such limited involvement raises questions about his value to the squad, especially considering his reported weekly wage of £8.6k—significantly higher than Liam Scales’ £5k, according to Salary Sport.
Moreover, Welsh’s market value is significantly lower than his teammates’. Transfermarkt values him at €800k, a fraction of Trusty’s €8m.
Since the start of the 2023/24 campaign, Welsh has made only 11 league appearances, starting just six games, compared to Scales, who has been a mainstay with 46 starts during the same period.
Reports from Anthony Joseph indicate that KV Mechelen has submitted a loan bid for Welsh, who is eager for regular playing time. Celtic, meanwhile, appear open to offers.
Given his minimal contribution to the team, it might be time for the club to pursue a permanent transfer or, at the very least, ensure any loan deal includes full coverage of his wages.
A move could benefit both parties. Celtic would reduce their wage bill, while Welsh could gain the regular game time he needs to develop his career further. A fresh start elsewhere might be the best solution for all involved.