Just two seasons ago, Liam Scales looked set to leave Celtic without making much of a mark. After a strong year on loan at Aberdeen, where he played 39 games and even scored in a win over Rangers, his future seemed to be at the Dons.

Aberdeen were reportedly keen to keep him, and it seemed like a permanent move was only a matter of time. Few expected the Irish defender to return and become a regular starter at Celtic Park.

But football can change quickly. Injuries in the Celtic defence gave Scales a chance, and he took it. Instead of being a backup, he became a regular starter. Under Brendan Rodgers, he’s played a big part in another title-winning season this year.

Even this season, Scales has battled back from being behind Auston Trusty to starting ahead of him during much of the final few months of the campaign, with the Irishman opening up on how he fought his way back into the picture in 2023.

He said: (The Herald Ireland),“Everyone at the club has had to work incredibly hard to get to where they are, and I’m no different. The cup final will sting but this season has been successful overall.

“I probably wasn’t ready to come straight in and play when I first moved over here, it took me time. I probably needed the loan spell at Aberdeen (39 appearances that season) to bridge the gap and give me experience of Scottish football, that was brilliant.

“Coming back to Celtic then, I got a little bit of luck, there were a few injuries. I probably didn’t see myself in the picture as much as I actually ended up being in it.

“Once I got the chance, it was a free hit nearly. I got the chance to play and start in my preferred position. I saw it as a free hit, in that ‘if I don’t play well, nothing is going to change because I was probably leaving [on loan] anyway, but if I do well, I have a chance to stake my claim’. I have enjoyed every bit of it.”

Now tied to Celtic until 2028, Scales has time to build further on his progress and help deliver more silverware. His route into the starting XI might’ve been unexpected, but he’s made the most of it. In doing so, he’s earned Rodgers’ trust and a regular place in the heart of the defence.

While there are still differing views among fans, Scales’ contributions speak for themselves. He’s shown he has the mentality and work ethic to take his chance when it arrives—qualities that have kept him firmly in the picture this season.

Consistency will now be key. With more European football ahead and another title to defend, Scales has the opportunity to raise his game even further. If he does, there’s every reason to believe he’ll remain a central figure at Celtic Park for the foreseeable future.