Today’s news that summer Celtic signing Liam Scales has been called up to the Republic of Ireland national team is very welcome.
Yes, it could be argued that it would be preferably for Scales to settle into his new life at Lennoxtown, with new teammates and coaches.
However, for me, it’s not just a fine achievement marking Scales’ progress at Shamrock Rovers, but the surest sign yet that Scales is ready to make an impact in the first-team squad.
The Scales signing wasn’t one that was particularly celebrated by supporters. Not out of badness, or knowledge about the player’s ability, but simply because of his footballing background and education compared to some other high-profile summer signings.
We’ve signed the top scorer from Eredivisie and the J-League, so a young defender from the Irish league was never going to make that much noise.
But I think Scales could be a surprise package. Not only is he providing critical squad depth, I don’t think he’s as far away from the level we need as many have assumed.
Let’s be honest, it’s been said he’s a project signing and could take time to get up to speed. But you don’t get an intentional call up if the reports from coaches aren’t positive. And you don’t get called up if your recent form has been poor.
Scales has been on the bubble of a senior Irish call up for a while, having come through their U18 and U21 age groups. Now, with the increased pressure and expectation of his move to Celtic, they’ve decided to pull the trigger.
If the 23-year-old returns from international duty fit and healthy, then expect him to be immediately competing to be included in matchday squads and perhaps even the first team. With a heavy schedule ahead, his versatility could be very useful to Ange Postecoglou.
Good luck with Ireland, Liam!
In other news, Celtic issue added value reminder to season ticket holders.
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