Celtic defender Liam Scales is at the centre of a modern footballing controversy today as Ireland prepare to face Israel. The 28-year-old started in Ireland’s midweek defeat to Kosovo but attention soon turned to the meeting against Israel in Debrecen, Hungary.
Last night, Bolton goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu elected to leave the Irish camp after advising that he could not face Israel as he takes a stance against the horrors of Gaza and the West Bank. Prior to the goalkeeper leaving, the Irish players were locked in meetings deciding whether to take action before finally voting on whether to fulfil the fixture.
As reported by The42.ie, Scales was one of a few Irish teammates to vote in favour of action while offering support for Bazunu. Despite this, the vote went through for the game to go ahead and teams are expected to line up this evening.
It remains to be seen whether Scales is involved in the match. Judging by social media, any appearance would likely lead to a blowback on the 28-year-old. The players have found themselves in the middle of a storm and the events of yesterday clearly highlighted that their football association were clueless as to what action to take. The report states that players were discussing what steps they could take in order to show support for the Palestinian people.
The fallout from this game will be far-reaching and hopefully Scales is not caught up in it. The defender has clearly made his views felt if it is being reported that he was one that voted in favour of some action. Hopefully he is not involved and he does not have to field any criticism. Celtic supporters have been vocal on the ‘StopTheGame’ campaign as they urged the FAI to take a stand.
Scales has made 163 appearances for Celtic, scoring 9 goals and assisting on 12 occasions. The County Wicklow-born defender has been a solid figure for Celtic since arriving back from a loan at Aberdeen. Brendan Rodgers really took Scales’ game on and he has become an accomplished first team option. For his faults, he always continues to work hard and show for the ball.
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2 Comments
He’s still there and will still take to the field to play ,,so in my book he’s a spineless coward , and will always be one ,the only person with any morals was the back up goalie
Yes, if he disagrees with the game going ahead he has to leave in protest and solidarity with his team mate. The Football Association of Ireland should be ashamed of themselves for playing this game and giving legitimacy to murderers.