‘I’m absolutely delighted for him’ – Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers backs Republic of Ireland's Liam Scales
Liam Scales in action for Ireland during the Euro 2024 qualifier against Gibraltar. Photo: Sportsfile
Brendan Rodgers has praised new Republic of Ireland cap Liam Scales for having the focus which turned around a grim prognosis for his future with Celtic into a starring role for club and country.
Scales admits he was uneasy over the summer when he returned to Parkhead, having spent last season on loan to Aberdeen. He had to try and impress new manager Rodgers and at one stage it looked as if a move away was on the cards.
But Wicklow native Scales, thanks in part due to an injury crisis in defence, worked his way into the side and has now played for the Bhoys in the league and Champions League, while also making his senior Ireland debut against Greece, with a follow-up cap away to Gibraltar.
“In a matter of weeks, Liam has gone from a player playing and thinking he’s leaving Celtic, to playing regularly in the team, to playing in the Champions League and making his international debut,” Rodgers said ahead of the team’s next tests, a league game against Hearts and next week’s Champions League battle at home to Atletico Madrid. .
“That’s how football can work for you if you stay focused and concentrated. I’m absolutely delighted for him but now consistency is the name of the game.”
Former UCD and Shamrock Rovers man Scales admitted last week that he feared for his future at Parkhead under Rodgers.
“He probably thought I was going to be heading elsewhere. The injuries happened and he was forced to play me. I did as well as I could have to stay in the team and prove to him what I'm about,” Scales said.
"During the summer I thought maybe I'd have to go to get regular football. Obviously a couple of injuries happened and I came
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