Eyebrows were raised by Martin O’Neill’s team selection for Celtic’s game against Falkirk.
With Auston Trusty suspended after his red card against Hearts, there was a decision to be made about who would partner Liam Scales at centre-back.
The lack of options in that area of the pitch meant that it was a straight shootout between Dane Murray and Stephen Welsh, and it was Murray that got the nod.
We’ve only seen Welsh once since being recalled from his loan at Motherwell but O’Neill was able to clarify why he selected the 22-year-old.
- READ MORE: Martin O’Neill has the chance to do something he has never done before as Celtic manager vs Falkirk
Has Martin O’Neill done the right thing by picking Dane Murray over Stephen Welsh?
Which player would you have picked?
Martin O’Neill on choosing Dane Murray
Speaking to Celtic TV before kick off, the 73-year-old was asked about his changes to the starting XI and the enforced decision he had to make.
Many would have presumed that Welsh would be ahead of Murray in the pecking order, but O’Neill thinks that the latter deserves his chance, with no mention of his other player at all.
He said: “Trusty and Scales have been terrific in the backline during my couple of spells here.
“It’s a big, big step up for Dane. I think he’s up for it, I think he’s ready for the challenge and let’s hope it goes well for him.”
What does the future hold for Stephen Welsh?
We know that Welsh is remaining at Celtic for the remainder of the season, but this can’t be what he expected.
Being back up to Trusty and Scales is one thing, but fourth in the pecking order will leave him frustrated.
He was even being touted for a recall to the Scotland squad. That now seems like a distant memory, especially if he can’t get a start against Falkirk.
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