Celtic have many players to thank for their successful season that has yielded Scottish Premiership glory during Brendan Rodgers’ first year back in charge.
The Irishman could also add the Scottish Cup to his lengthy trophy haul if his side can see off Rangers in the final this weekend.
Nevertheless, Rodgers has needed to lean on the squad amid some widespread injury troubles, with the likes of Liam Scales, Tomoki Iwata, and James Forrest coming in from the periphery to play pivotal roles in their league triumph.
For others, it has been a case of adapting to their surroundings. Alistair Johnston has rarely been absent this campaign, registering one goal and seven assists across 41 appearances [Transfermarkt].
Intriguingly, the Canadian right-back has now offered glowing praise to one of his teammates that he believes has been ‘unbelievable’ this term.
Alistair Johnston discusses Liam Scales and his impact at Celtic
Republic of Ireland Scales has needed to fight for his Celtic career and was reportedly close to joining Aberdeen on a permanent deal last summer following a successful loan spell at Pittodrie.
Despite that, he has worked his way into the side, becoming a regular under Rodgers in central defence in his breakthrough year, featuring 44 times in total.
Speaking on the Celtic FC Official Podcast, Johnston has shed light on why Scales has been a joy to play alongside, stating: “He’s been unbelievable. I think that it’s a testament to him that he really was a true professional because I know how difficult it was, especially at the end of the summer there, where he did look like he was going to be on the periphery from the outside looking in.
“Then he was given an opportunity, and he was unbelievable. He took that opportunity with both hands and ran with it, and he didn’t really open that door up again to the big name signings we made in that position.
“It’s a real testament to him and how he’s played as a player. I think he’s been unbelievable, you can see again with the accolades he’s got, he’s got in the best XI in Scotland. He’s got a FIFA Team of the Season card that looks unbelievable as well!
Later, he added: “He’s been great, he’s someone who plays for the badge and lives and breathes this football club, and you can tell how much every single minute out there means to him, so it’s been a real joy, especially being another defender, playing alongside him, seeing his growth, seeing his confidence.
“He’s turned into a really important centre-half for us and played a pivotal, pivotal part for us in lifting this title.”
Liam Scales has stood up and been counted for Celtic
When others weren’t available, Scales took the opportunity to progress from being a stand-in defender to establish himself as a first-choice, which has to be admired considering the circumstances.
Per Fotmob, the Irishman leads the way on league for the Hoops in accurate passes per 90 minutes (87.7%), clearances (4.0) and interceptions (0.8), demonstrating his impact on the side.
Whether he remains in pole position to start matches next season is another debate; however, he deserves the appreciation of his teammates and the Celtic support.