Celtic are in a healthy position in the Scottish Premiership and will be keen to see through their title quest in the final three league matches of the season.
Brendan Rodgers’ men have enjoyed moments of dominance and precariousness this term; however, they hold a three-point lead heading into the Glasgow Derby this weekend, coupled with a superior goal difference to Rangers.
In central defence, Liam Scales has been a virtual ever-present for Celtic through each stage of 2023/24, racking up 41 appearances across all competitions this season, scoring once and recording three assists [Transfermarkt].
Labelled one of the biggest ‘surprises’ of Rodgers’ managerial career by the man in charge, the Republic of Ireland international earned himself deserved recognition last week, signing a four-year contract extension at Parkhead.
Per Fotmob, Scales leads the way for Celtic this season in interceptions, blocks, and clearances per 90 minutes on league duty, alongside pass completion, illustrating the valuable nature of his regularly availability while others have succumbed to injury.
Without a doubt, Rodgers has galvanised the defender to establish himself alongside Cameron Carter-Vickers despite strong rumours he could leave the club last summer for Aberdeen, which is testament to his determination.
Liam Scales on what Brendan Rodgers has did at Celtic
In light of his emergence, Rodgers has clearly taken a shine to Scales since returning to Parkhead, as the Irishman has ousted the likes of summer signings Maik Nawrocki and Gustaf Lagerbielke for a first-team berth.
The 25-year-old will be keen to repay his faith by securing a league medal, which would cap off a fine season from the former Shamrock Rovers defender.
Cited via The Daily Record, Scales has lauded Rodgers for his ability to take the pressure off his players’ shoulders, helping to build a winning mentality and instil belief in the wider group.
He stated: “The manager is great. He instils a belief in all of us. You might feel under pressure, but he takes it away and shows why we are here and makes us belief in ourselves. That’s a really good trait, and it helps us a lot. I feel like I’m all right under pressure. I think most people are at this level.
“It would be hard to get to a certain level if you struggled under pressure. We have a squad full of players with a good mentality.
“We are all together, and there are no bad eggs. Everyone is working to the same goal. That is what really helps us the most. I don’t want to come across a certain way, but it would be hard to get here if you couldn’t handle the pressure.”
Celtic need to harness their belief this weekend
Celtic need to build on their confident displays over the last few weeks by getting off to a quick start against Rangers on Saturday, as they will turn up to Parkhead knowing a win is the only likely way to save their own chances of success.
The Bhoys have taken seven points from nine available against their rivals this term; meanwhile, their goal difference should mean there is less immediate jeopardy and nerves that come from that attached to the fixture.
When the heat is on, Celtic usually perform; however, football can produce the unexpected, so there can be no room for complacency on home soil.
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