As Liam Scales marks five years since joining Celtic FC, he reflects on a transformative journey that has seen him evolve from an aspiring young talent into a key member of the first-team squad. The Irish defender signed with the Hoops in September 2021, but his early days were marked by challenges in securing regular playing time.
To gain valuable experience, Scales was loaned to Aberdeen for the 2022/23 season. This stint proved crucial for his development, allowing him to adapt to the rigors of competitive football. Ahead of a match against his former club, Scales acknowledged the impact this loan had on his readiness to contribute at a high level upon his return to Celtic.
“I probably wasn’t ready when I moved over at first to come in and make a real impact,” Scales admitted. He emphasized how the experience in Aberdeen helped him grow both as a player and as a person. “Realizing what it takes to play consistently at this level over time really helped. It’s been a great journey and I want to continue to improve. I feel like the best is yet to come,” he added.
Upon returning to Celtic in the summer of 2023, Scales began to carve out a role for himself in the squad. A standout moment in his progression was the 1-0 victory at Ibrox, where he played a pivotal role in securing a clean sheet. This match not only underscored his defensive capabilities but also helped build trust among his teammates and coaching staff.
“I feel like coming out of that game with a clean sheet and a 1-0 win, and defending really well, maybe I wasn’t trusted before that,” Scales said. He noted that the performance helped others recognize his potential to succeed at the top level. Since then, Scales has added league titles and cup victories to his resume, taking on more responsibility within the team, including wearing the captain’s armband.
Scales credits the influence of senior players like captain Callum McGregor, James Forrest, Cameron Carter-Vickers, and Alistair Johnston for aiding his development into a leadership role. “When you have players like Cal around you, it makes it easier to move into that leadership role,” he explained. He strives to emulate their professionalism and dedication, particularly McGregor’s perfectionist approach.
As Celtic navigates a challenging period following recent European disappointments, Scales recognizes the importance of experienced players in guiding the team forward. “We’re still really disappointed about the European result and I think we need to go on a good run now to make up for that,” he stated. He believes that players with deep knowledge of the club, like himself, Carter-Vickers, and Johnston, have a responsibility to support McGregor and help the team regain momentum.
Looking ahead, Scales is focused on the upcoming match against Aberdeen, where he will face familiar opponents from his loan spell. “We need to be strong. They’re going to be a physical test and they look quite solid and a decent side,” he warned. He emphasized the need for the team to win their individual battles and control the game, aiming for a clinical and ruthless performance to secure victory.
Leave a Comment