Liam Scales addresses his ideal positions after signing for Celtic

By Euan Davidson

September 1, 2021

New Bhoy Liam Scales has achieved a dream in joining Celtic from Shamrock Rovers.

A well-regarded talent in Ireland, Scales trialled with Manchester City [Balls.ie], before Bristol Rovers wanted to take him to England. However, a spell at Shamrock Rovers yielded some impressive performances, with Celtic taking note.

What’s particularly interesting about Scales is the versatility he’s shown over a short career. The Dublin-born defender has played the majority of his games at centre-back. However, he’s also worked on the left of a defence, and even as a left midfielder in a 3-5-2 [Transfermarkt].

So, what kind of player have Celtic bought, and for where? According to Scales himself, he isn’t fussed where he’s put. Provided, that is, he gets his chance to impress.

Speaking to Celtic’s in-house media today, the Irish defender said [Celtic FC]:

“Over the years I’ve played in plenty of positions. I suppose when I was younger I was a left-sided midfielder and I kind of dropped back. At UCD I played mainly as a centre-back and I played a bit of left-back there as well, and in my first season at Shamrock Rovers I played centre-back. But with injuries to players this season I was put out left and I did quite well.

“So I suppose I’m a versatile left-sided defender and I can play anywhere between the three positions – centre-back, left wing-back, left-back – as long as I’m playing, I’m happy.”

Liam Scales looks like a shrewd investment for Celtic

Whether he ends up playing left-back, centre-back or even dressing up as Hoopy the Huddle Hound, Scales is a player that comes with a very decent reputation.

In an exclusive chat with Irish football expert Andrew Dempsey, Scales was described as a player that’s great on the ball, hard-working and a player that deserves success.

Little wonder, then, that after such a successful stint in his native Ireland, Celtic were keen to bring in the Dublin-born defender.

Whether he’s competition for Greg Taylor or Stephen Welsh is, currently, anyone’s guess. It’ll be up to Ange Postecoglou to make those kinds of calls. There’s the possibility that, like he did with Australia, Postecoglou will eventually introduce a back-three.

Whatever happens, you get the sense Scales is happy fitting in wherever he can. It’s a big opportunity for the 23-year-old, and he sounds like he’s raring to go.

Read more: 5 facts about new Bhoy