Celtic defender Liam Scales has opened up on almost leaving the Hoops during the summer transfer window.

He has become an important part of the Parkhead side's defence after being thrown into the action back in August amid a centre-back injury crisis.

The Irishman spent last season on loan at Aberdeen and he revealed that the Pittodrie side were keen to have him back for another campaign.

Speaking to The Irish Independent, he said: "I suppose at the start of the year I think I came back into pre-season with Celtic and most people thought I was going to go back to Aberdeen.

"It was sort of in the pipeline, there was talk of it happening. Then obviously a few injuries happened.

"I think I’ve surprised in the sense that maybe I wasn’t fully in the picture, then a few injuries happened and I was thrown straight in and did well, and I’ve held my place now.

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“I spoke to them at the end of my loan and they were keen to have me back for a year or 18 months and move me on, and I loved Aberdeen, Aberdeen is a brilliant football club.

"I was really looking forward to trying to get back there and do that, but it has worked out better for me now and I’m happy that it has.

"Playing for Celtic is massive. For me and my family, they are all so proud and I am proud of myself.

"Being Irish, there is a connection there, a big fan base in Ireland. For me to be sort of representing the Irish at Celtic, it’s great. I’m trying to enjoy every minute of it because who knows how long it will last.”