Celtic’s January transfer window was anything but smooth. The month began under Wilfried Nancy, but Martin O’Neill quickly took over, leading to significant changes, including a shuffle in the centre of defence.
On deadline day, the Hoops signed Benjamin Arthur from Brentford. At the same time, Stephen Welsh returned to Motherwell, and Jahmai Simpson-Pusey’s season-long loan was cut short.
Whether Arthur will feature this season is up for debate. Si Ferry, speaking on Open Goal, doubts the Englishman will get any game time. He was particularly baffled by Celtic letting Welsh leave when he felt the player had the quality to play for the Hoops. Ironically, Welsh scored against Rangers on his return to Fir Park, a goal that dented Celtic’s title hopes.
Ferry said, “See when you watch Stephen Welsh play for Motherwell against Rangers, and then they sign this boy from Brentford. Stephen Welsh goes to Motherwell.”
Gordon Dalziel added, “But we haven’t seen the boy play yet, so you’ve got to give him a chance.”
Ferry replied, “You won’t see him. He won’t play a minute.”
Dalziel countered, “It will be interesting.”
James McFadden chimed in, “Aye, he will. You mentioned the packed schedule. You’re going to have to use him at some point.”
Dalziel agreed, “You will probably see him at some point.”
When it comes to Celtic’s current centre-back hierarchy, Liam Scales and Auston Trusty are clearly the first-choice pairing. O’Neill has consistently relied on them since taking charge, and it’s unlikely that will change. With Cameron Carter-Vickers sidelined for the remainder of the season, Dane Murray and Benjamin Arthur provide the only additional options.
Current Celtic centre-back options:
- Liam Scales
- Auston Trusty
- Dane Murray
- Benjamin Arthur
Arthur’s role remains uncertain, but with a busy schedule ahead, there is a possibility he will get minutes before the season ends.