Celtic defender Liam Scales has his loan spell at Aberdeen a couple of seasons ago to thank for helping push his first-team football agenda under Brendan Rodgers.
Previously, the Irishman was on the periphery at Celtic Park and it didn’t appear like there was a major scope for him to break into the starting line-up.
However, a Celtic injury crisis last term helped Liam Scales break into Brendan Rodgers’ plans, and it is fair to say he hasn’t looked back since.
Now firmly first-choice beside Cameron Carter-Vickers, the former Shamrock Rovers man is approaching the 70-appearance mark with the Bhoys and could break through the century threshold this campaign.
On international duty after his recent call-up under Heimir Halgrimsson, Scales scored for the Republic of Ireland against Finland, capping his brilliant season start for club and country.
With Celtic and Aberdeen set to lock horns this weekend, former teammate Joe Lewis has put forward why the Wicklow native is such a valuable asset to play alongside.
Joe Lewis on Liam Scales’ rise to prominence at Celtic
Speaking on PLZ Soccer, Lewis is a big fan of the balance Scales offers in the backline. Meanwhile, he also commended how the Irishman has handled the pressure of playing for Celtic.
He explained: “He is doing well, he has got a lot of ability, he is a very good defender. What he gives you is great balance as a left-footed centre-half.
“I think left-footed centre-halves just tend to be more valuable and create that evenness and balance throughout a formation.
“That’s where he has even more value, but I would say also, going into that team, you’ve got to be able to deal with the pressure of playing for Celtic.
“It’s the same for any player coming into the Aberdeen team right now; it’s a much easier environment to go into a team that is playing good football and winning games.”
Liam Scales wants to add more to his game at Celtic
After his maiden Republic of Ireland goal, Scales said he wants to add more goals to his Celtic repertoire as the season rolls on.
The Irishman stated: “Sometimes, the goals can come together, and then you don’t get any for a while. But if I can make the most of the chances I get, then I’ll be happy.
“That’s a few this season. I’ve got a few this season and I didn’t get many in the couple of seasons before. So it’s a good thing to add to my game, and hopefully, I can kick on now and get a few more. I suppose I work hard in the gym, so I’m stronger.”
With headers for Celtic against Kilmarnock and Slovan Bratislava completing his international contribution, Scales is a threat in both boxes that other sides are struggling to contend with. Hopefully, he can continue improving on all aspects as the Bhoys chase further success.
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