Liam Scales has praised Celtic’s resilience during their dramatic title-winning run-in while also throwing his support behind Martin O’Neill remaining as manager next season.
Celtic’s charge towards the Premiership title looked to have stalled after a damaging defeat away to Dundee United in March left them trailing Hearts by five points with only seven league fixtures remaining.
But what followed was a flawless finish to the campaign as Martin O’Neill’s side surged back to complete a league and cup double in dramatic fashion.
Liam Scales recalled the mood around the squad during the international break that followed the setback at Tannadice, when few outside the dressing room believed Celtic could recover.
“I can remember going away with the international team in March, having lost to Dundee United, and saying to everyone, all we need to do is win every game to win a double, and it’s kind of getting laughed off, so it’s amazing to go and actually do that,” Scales explained via The Herald.
“I think everyone kind of had their doubts coming off the back of that loss at Dundee United. It was a tall task, but the lads have just been incredible.”
Several players proved decisive during the run-in, with Daizen Maeda producing a remarkable spell of form by scoring nine goals and contributing two assists across the final seven matches. Kelechi Iheanacho also made a major impact from the bench, netting five times during the closing weeks of the season.
The returns of Arne Engels and Alistair Johnston from injury provided another timely boost, although Martin O’Neill’s guidance was the key factor behind Celtic’s revival.
The 74-year-old is expected to hold talks with principal shareholder Dermot Desmond this week regarding the possibility of remaining in charge permanently.
“Personally, I probably haven’t felt more confident under a manager,” Scales admitted. “The confidence he gives us and me personally – it’s been great, it’s been really good.
“It’s been tough, and there have been ups and downs, but as a group I think we’ve always felt that confidence from the manager, and me personally, 100 per cent it’s made a big difference.”
Following Celtic’s Scottish Cup triumph on Saturday, defender Auston Trusty suggested O’Neill had earned the right to decide his own future at the club.
Scales would welcome the 74 year-old staying on beyond the summer.
“Personally, I’d be delighted,” he said. “I love playing for him. Obviously, that’s out of my hands, but it would be great for me. I’ve really enjoyed playing with him and I think we’ve been really successful.”
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