Celtic star competing with Aberdeen and Hibs pair for prestigious award

Coatbridge’s Stephen Welsh has been nominated for the DoubleTree by Hilton Scottish SPFL Young Player of the Year.

The Celtic centre-back makes the five-man shortlist - selected by the Scottish Football Writers Association - after showing his potential at Parkhead.

While failing to make a league appearance so far this year, he has featured in 23 matches across all competitions for Ange Postecoglou’s side, scoring twice with one assist.

The former pupil of St Andrew’s High has also represented his country at under-21 level this season.

Now 22, Welsh has been singled out for praise by manager Postecoglou on multiple occasions this year for his contributions to the Hoops playing group.

They are six points clear at the top of the Premiership with four games to go, and take on second-placed Rangers this Sunday in a crucial derby match.

Welsh is up against Aberdeen’s Calvin Ramsay, Hibs’ Josh Doig, Everton’s Nathan Patterson and Dundee United centre-back Ross Graham for the award.

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