Liam Scales explains how Brendan Rodgers is keeping everyone ‘on their toes’ at Celtic

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Liam Scales continues to climb the Celtic ladder and helped his side keep a fifth league clean sheet in a row against Heart of Midlothian last weekend.

The Republic of Ireland international had played every minute of the Scottish Premiership season and played his part in equalling a 118-year-old shutout record as the Bhoys continue to dominate in both boxes.

Last week, 67 Hail Hail discussed how Scales will have to be at his best to see off Auston Trusty for his place in the side, with Brendan Rodgers keen to ensure competition for places at Celtic Park.

Brought in for £6 million, his defensive counterpart Trusty comes in with a high pedigree as a United States international, though he has yet to play a single minute since joining on deadline day.

Nevertheless, Scales has opened up on why nobody at Celtic is taking their slot for granted under Rodgers’ stewardship

Liam Scales on strict competition for places at Celtic

Per The Daily Record, Scales has applauded the level of competition Rodgers has added for places at Celtic and is relishing a fight for his position in central defence.

He stated: “The competition all over the pitch here is second to none. There’s two or three players for each position, so it’s nothing out of the ordinary.

“I just have to keep doing what I’m doing and, hopefully, stay in the team. That’s the way it is. It’s good, it keeps everyone on their toes, and I’m happy with it.”

Looking at the evidence, Scales certainly seems to be thriving under the pressure. Per Fotmob, he completed 82 of his 89 attempted passes against Hearts last weekend (92% success rate), with 18 of them reaching the final third.

Hailing from Wicklow, the former Shamrock Rovers man also won 100% of his contested ground duels, made five clearances, four headed clearances, five recoveries and three aerial duels.

Continuing his excellent form from last term, there is plenty more to come from Scales this campaign as Celtic look to raise the bar on several fronts.