Brendan Rodgers had to dip into his substitute options on Sunday to help Celtic over the line against Rangers in the Premier Sports Cup final.
The Bhoys had to hold their nerve in a dramatic penalty shootout, with Kasper Schmeichel’s save from Ridvan Yilmaz teeing up Daizen Maeda to deliver the decisive spot-kick after Reo Hatate and Jack Butland converted.
Normal and extra time couldn’t separate the sides as Celtic and Rangers battled out a six-goal contest that captured the imagination of Scottish football circles and beyond.
Both teams utilised all five of their substitutes, though Liam Scales’ introduction to replace Celtic defender Auston Trusty was regarded as a brave call at half-time by supporters due to the unusual nature of the change.
However, it was a choice that added a different dynamic to proceedings, and Mark Wilson honed in on Brendan Rodgers’ defensive line and where pros and cons can be found in the aftermath of last weekend’s drama.
Mark Wilson examines Celtic defensive line and January priorities
Speaking on the Go Radio Football Show, Wilson believes that Rodgers made a ‘brave’ decision to take off Trusty for Scales, but it worked out in the Bhoys’ favour as they marched on to cup glory.
In addition, he also cast doubt on whether Celtic will dip into the market for defensive reinforcements as the club have enough diversity in options.
He stated: “Firstly, I thought it was the right decision. I was surprised on Sunday at half-time when he took him off, but when I seen it unfold, I could understand why. I thought Trusty had a difficult first 45; he kept running into blind alleys and getting caught up in things, so I thought it was a brave decision and ultimately, it worked, if you like.
“In terms of the longer-term plan and bigger picture of shoring up, I’m not so sure. I think they’re okay at the minute. When you go into the Champions League and you’re playing against better quality, of course you’re going to get undone and unpicked at times.
“I think domestically, they’ve been sound. I thought Trusty and Carter-Vickers were certainly the partnership you would look to build on. Carter-Vickers will play in the big, important games; I think it’s only the ones on astroturf after a big Champions League game he will miss out on.
“That’s what you’re going to have to deal with. I’m not too sure if he (Rodgers) will dip into the transfer market to add another defender because I think he’s got enough in reserve.”
Celtic could be set for defensive movement in January
On that subject, there have been a couple of recent developments that may interest supporters regarding the Bhoys’ defensive line.
Earlier today, reports started to circulate claiming Stephen Welsh and Maik Nawrocki could leave Celtic come January in search of regular football, which would pave the way for either a new backline addition or promotion of a development player.
Furthermore, Dane Murray is set to be recalled from Queens Park and has interest from the Scottish Premiership and EFL clubs. Could his form be worthy of recognition? It remains to be seen, but he would help fill homegrown regulations.
Lastly, there is the possibility that Celtic could sink in any potential earnings from departures to capture a brand new centre-half. Build-up to the January window is still in the early stages of formation, though it is beginning to heat up.
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