Liam Shaw was one of the first Celtic arrivals at the start of the Ange Postecoglou era but is now embarking on a new chapter of his career after a quiet exit from the club.
Celtic did not officially announce his departure during the summer despite Shaw’s contract being believed to run until 2025.
It seems he was released before the end of the window because he’s just signed for English League Two side Fleetwood Town as an unattached free agent.
Had he still been on the books at Celtic beyond the deadline, he would not have been able to register with another side until January.
Liam Shaw back in England after Celtic departure
The Fishermen said in a statement: “Fleetwood Town are happy to announce the signing of midfielder Liam Shaw on a permanent contract until the summer of 2025.
“The six-foot-four central midfielder heads to the Fylde Coast after leaving Scottish Premiership side Celtic, and now joins Charlie Adam’s side for the remainder of the season.
“The midfielder will now wear the number 26 for the 2024/25 season – he will be eligible to face Bromley at Highbury Stadium on Saturday in the 12:30pm kick-off.”
Shaw failed to make the required Celtic impact
Shaw made just two appearances for the Bhoys and failed to win his way into Ange Postecoglou’s plans as a regular after arriving from Sheffield Wednesday.
His only start came in a 3-2 Celtic victory against Real Betis in the Europa League back in 2021. He also appeared as a substitute in a 0-0 draw against St Mirren in December of that year.
A loan spell at Morecambe followed before Brendan Rodgers sanctioned his loan exit to Wigan Athletic last season.
Shaw was not part of the summer training preparations so it seems a decision was made early on his future at Celtic, allowing him to pursue regular football elsewhere.
The tricky road for Celtic fringe players
Of the fringe players who were handed a big opportunity in that Betis match, only Liam Scales has gone on to establish himself as a current regular in the team.
Scales was once of the same status as Shaw, and the two contrasting journeys show just what a remarkable job the Irishman has done to work his way into Rodgers’ plans.
At the same time, we know Shaw would have had chances if he had shown the required qualities in training.
As always, we wish the departing player all the best in his future career. Still just 23, he has plenty of time to find success.
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