Auston Trusty’s Celtic career looked on the ropes at times last season. The £6 million defender arrived with much anticipation, but a string of unconvincing performances, most notably in the League Cup Final against Rangers where he was hooked at half-time, saw his form dip sharply.
Fast forward to this pre-season, and Trusty is starting to shift the narrative. While early apperances against Queen’s Park and Cork City offered little in the way of meaningful tests, the American has stepped up when it mattered most.
He made a series of key challenges, including one vital clearance after William Osula had rounded Kasper Schmeichel, and kept his discipline after an early booking. While still not perfect, his willingness to step into challenges and physical presence were a big part of keeping Newcastle quiet in a 4-0 win.
The American was also praised for keeping his head after a booking, continuing to compete strongly without stepping over the line.
It’s performances like these that will give Brendan Rodgers food for thought. With Cameron Carter-Vickers nailed on for one of the centre-back slots, the battle for the other appears to be heating up. Liam Scales has been a reliable option and even chipped in with a goal against Newcastle, but Trusty’s recent displays suggest he’s not ready to hand over that jersey without a fight.
There’s still room for improvement in his passing and decision-making, but it’s clear the US defender relishes a proper contest. If the former Birmingham man can maintain this level through the remainder of pre-season, there’s every chance he’ll be lining up on the opening day alongside his fellow American against St Mirren at Celtic Park.
After being written off by many towards the end of last season, Auston Trusty might just be on the path to proving a few people wrong.
