Earlier this month, Celtic made the decision to recall Stephen Welsh from his loan at Motherwell. His time at the Steelmen was fruitful, with the supporters of the club enjoying his performances, and it was looking as though he might make the World Cup in America later this year.
It was a decision thought of as strange when Welsh was recalled. According to journalists, Celtic have been looking for a right-sided centre-back throughout January but have yet to come up with an option. This is likely why the Hoops decided to recall the Scottish defender.
The big question on everyone's lips though: Will Martin O'Neill actually play him? Or have his World Cup hopes just been dented?
Having played 17 games across all competitions for the Well this season, fans were sad to see him go. He did well under manager Jens Berthel Askou and matched his style of play, but Celtic are weak in the defensive area and needed reinforcements.
With the failure to get any new defenders through the door, O'Neill was left with no option but to look within, and some pundits are hailing Austin Trusty's suspension as the perfect chance for Welsh to prove himself.
"Stephen Welsh expected to remain at the club" - Callum McFadden
According to journalist Callum McFadden, the Hoops will not be looking to bring in a centre-back before the window slams shut. Some corners of the support are labelling this as "squad negligence", while others are hopeful of Welsh's ability to perform on the big stage.
Since returning to the club, Welsh has only featured in Celtic's clash against Auchinleck Talbot. Steve Clarke will undoubtedly be looking for players to take to the States, so if he isn't given the chance to perform during the best stint of his career, then his hopes will quickly diminish.
It's hard not to feel disappointed for Welsh, as looking at his record so far this season, he certainly deserved to make it. He still has plenty of time to prove himself though if O'Neill trusts him in the backline. It seems more likely though that he would prefer a partnership of Liam Scales and Trusty.