Stephen Welsh grabs Celtic captain's role with both hands as stand in skipper reveals armband was 'dream' come true

Stephen Welsh reckons the trust of Brendan Rodgers offers the belief.

The Celtic defender admits it was a dream come true as he led the team out for the pre-season opener in Ayr. Welsh was named captain of a youthful version of the champions at Somerset Park. Regardless of the fixture, it was a special moment for the 24-year-old, who has grown up as a supporter of the club. He said: “As a young fan, that is the dream. Even in a pre-season friendly, there is no better feeling than that. I just went out and enjoyed it.”

Such decisions are, however, about more than just a piece of material being wrapped around someone’s upper arm. Nomination for the role on any occasion can be seen as a clear sign of faith and trust from a manager and reflect his backing for a player. That means a lot in Welsh’s eyes as he added: “It’s all you can ask for from the gaffer. If he trusts you, then you can trust yourself on the pitch and, obviously, I’m delighted. But I think it’s about looking ahead and to the next games.”

Welsh is raring to go for the campaign ahead as he again looks to press his claims to be a regular starter. The defender had his momentum halted almost as soon as Rodgers walked in the door last season by an ankle injury that sidelined him for four months. He was put straight back into the starting line-up after his long absence for a Champions League encounter against Feyenoord as his boss again displayed that trust.

Cameron Carter-Vickers and Liam Scales held the jerseys for the majority of the season, but, although Maik Nawrocki and Gustaf Lagerbielke were signed, Welsh stayed in the fight. Rodgers will again be hunting fresh faces for his backline this summer. But, if any example was needed on taking opportunities, it