Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers isn’t yet ready to make a decision on Liam Scales’ future as the Bhoys put a squad together in the final weeks of the transfer window.
The manager has again praised Scales after watching him up close in Celtic training and giving him minutes in pre-season friendlies.
Aberdeen are strong admirers of the Irish talent after having him on loan last term and it hasn’t been a secret that they want him again for the 2023/24 campaign.
But Rodgers isn’t quite ready to part ways, not until he is sure the defensive options are where he wants them for the coming season.
The Bhoys boss said [Scottish Daily Mail, 13/08 print edition page 94]: “Liam has trained really well in pre-season. He turned 25 the other day and at that age he’ll have the mindset of wanting to play. At 17 or 18 it’s about learning your trade but he’s come over into the game late and will want to play.
“His attitude has been first class. I really like him as a guy and he has qualities as a player. By the end of the window we will be in a position where we will know where we are with the squad. I know where we need to strengthen.”
Celtic have signed Maik Nawrocki in the central defensive position but Carl Starfelt has left for Celta Vigo, meaning Scales is needed for cover right now.
That could change soon with a move for Gustag Lagerbielke of Elfsborg, a transfer that is said to be close to completion after the Scottish champions agreed a fee for him.
Scales is unlikely to have a long-term future at the Bhoys so an exit seems best, but Rodgers is right to keep him in place until he is certain the depth is there for any Celtic eventuality.
In other news, Celtic press ahead with £20m redevelopment; construction set to begin.
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