Ange Postecoglou explains why Celtic have signed Irish defender Liam Scales

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Celtic have reached an agreement with Shamrock Rovers to sign 23-year-old Irish defender Liam Scales.

Scales, who spent time on trial with Manchester City, and nearly signed for Bristol Rovers, has been in inspired form for the Rovers. The former UCD prospect is capable at playing left-back, left wing-back, or in central defence.

Ange Postecoglou sounded delighted after the club announced they’d got their man [Celtic FC]. The Celtic boss has been stressing for defensive reinforcements over recent weeks, and was keen to bring the Irishman over to Celtic.

He said [Celtic FC]:

“Liam is a young player who has impressed us and is someone who we think has the potential to have a big future at Celtic. He is an athletic defender who has the ability to play in a number of positions.

“As I have said before, everyone at the club has been working hard to add depth and quality to our squad and in signing Liam I think again we have made good progress. We all look forward to welcoming Liam to Celtic and to start working with him.”

Ange Postecoglou delighted as Liam Scales joins Celtic

Scales reportedly knocked back interest from English clubs to join the Bhoys. The riches of the Premier League weren’t enough to lure the Irish defender, who has signed a four-year deal with Celtic.

Now, this is another signing we can definitely get on board with. Good in the air and in possession, Scales isn’t a project player, or a talented youngster we can develop. At 23, he’s already established. Moving to Celtic gives him an excellent grounding to play in elite competitions and become an Ireland regular.

Scales, tipped for his first call-up, just missed out on Stephen Kenny’s squad. If he’s able to get some game-time with the Bhoys though, his shouts will only be strengthened.

It’s strengthening Celtic need, too. With Greg Taylor and Adam Montgomery the only real options at left-back, and a shortage of central defenders, the move makes total sense.

Christopher Jullien is yet to return to training, although Stephen Welsh and Carl Starfelt have been generally decent in his absence. The loss of Kristoffer Ajer, and permanent sale of Jack Hendry, means we’re not spoilt for options.

Postecoglou, clearly, is very happy with this business.

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