Celtic will take on Aberdeen on Flag Day at Parkhead, in what is a big Premiership season opener for both sides. The Hoops will be looking to make a good start to their title defence against the Rangers and avoid the poor early performances from the previous campaign. On the other hand, The Dons have showcased some very good form and are a team capable of causing an upset. So, Ange Postecoglou’s side will have to be careful.
Aberdeen will have one more problem in the game against Celtic. They will not have Liam Scales available on the day as he is on loan from the Hoops.
Scales has made a tremendous start to his time at Aberdeen, shining at centre-back, and already looks like a key part of their team. Some of their fans do not appear to be happy with the club taking players from Celtic on loan though and there was even a banner about it earlier.
Aberdeen manager, Jim Goodwin, does not appear to have any problems with it although he admitted that he did try to sign Scales on a permanent deal. As reported by The Scotsman, he told Sky Sports:
"“He’s a top player and he gives us great balance on that left hand side. He’s the best option available for us right now.“We did enquire to Celtic about trying to make it a permanent one, but they prefer to go down the loan route. So, I’m quite comfortable with it.“I think the supporters should be too. I think they recognise what Liam has brought to the team so far.“He has been one of our standout performers in this early part (of the season).”"
Aberdeen manager admits to trying to sign Celtic player permanently
Scales is not the only Celtic player that Aberdeen have had on loan recently. Adam Montgomery was with the Dons in the second half of the previous season.
Scales was signed by Celtic from Shamrock Rovers last summer but never quite managed to nail down his spot in Postecoglou’s side, despite a few good performances here and there.
At Celtic, he was mostly used at left-back. He seems to be enjoying his role at centre-back at Aberdeen though and if he can perform there consistently through the course of the season, he could potentially be a challenger for Carl Starfelt next season.