Liam Scales, the Republic of Ireland centre-back, had a standout season last year when he filled in for injured players and solidified his position in the starting XI. However, with the arrival of Auston Trusty from Sheffield United in the summer, Scales has found himself relegated to the bench.
Trusty initially struggled to find his footing, but he has since come into his own and formed a solid partnership with Cameron Carter-Vickers. As a result, Scales faces a daunting task in regaining his spot in the starting lineup.
Allan Preston, a Scottish football pundit, recently expressed his opinion on the situation, stating that Trusty would play before Scales. Preston’s assessment has proven accurate, with Trusty cementing his place in the team.
Scales’ Demotion Not a Reflection of His Abilities
It’s essential to note that Scales’ demotion is not a reflection of his abilities as a player. He has not done anything wrong to warrant losing his place in the starting XI. However, the nature of playing for a top-tier club like Celtic means that the team is always looking to improve, even in areas where things are satisfactory.
Opportunities for Scales to Impress
Although Scales faces an uphill battle to regain his starting spot, he will undoubtedly get opportunities to impress. Carter-Vickers’ injury record is a concern, and it’s likely that he will be rested from time to time. When this happens, Scales will have the chance to remind manager Brendan Rodgers of his capabilities.
If Scales can deliver a few outstanding performances, it’s possible that he could work his way back into Rodgers’ starting plans. However, for now, it appears that he has a mountain to climb.
The Competition for Places at Celtic
The competition for places at Celtic is fierce, and Scales is not alone in facing a challenge to regain his spot in the starting lineup. The team’s depth and quality mean that players must be at the top of their game to earn a starting berth.
In conclusion, Liam Scales faces a significant challenge in regaining his spot in Celtic’s starting XI. However, with opportunities to impress and a strong work ethic, he can still play a vital role for the team this season.