Liam Scales to Aberdeen FC transfer latest as Celtic decision timeline revealed amid Barry Robson waiting game

Brendan Rodgers admits he’ll wait before making a decision on Liam Scales.

The Celtic defender spent last season at Aberdeen and Reds boss Bary Robson would like the Irishman back at Pittodrie on loan. Scales heads back to the Granite City on Sunday with his parent club as he continues to fight for a spot in Rodgers’ Hoops plans. The Celtic gaffer understands the 25-year-old is at the stage of his career where he needs to play but he will take his time as he sizes up his own set-up.

Rodgers said: “By the end of the window we’ll be in a position where we’ll know where are with the squad. I know where we need to strengthen. Liam has trained really well in pre-season. I’d seen hardly anything of him so I wanted to take the chance to see him. It’s all about timing, going out to play. There’s obviously benefits to staying here and working with an intense group. Ultimately, it’s about game time as well for players.

“Liam turned 25 the other day and he will have the mindset I’m sure at that age of wanting to play. But his attitude has been first-class and he has qualities as a player. We’ll just assess where it’s at over the coming weeks.”

Rodgers knows Aberdeen will be a stiff test. Robson has built a strong squad and his opposite number said: “I spoke to Barry a few times over the summer. He’s done really well. He came in after it was difficult for Jim, looking at it from afar.

“Barry has been there for a period of time, settled it down, had a good finish and ended up in Europe. My own experience of Aberdeen is that it’s always a challenge. Derek McInnes did a fantastic job there. So I always expect a really tough game from Aberdeen, home or away, but it’s always a really good place to go.”