Celtic recall Stephen Welsh with first-team future in mind

Celtic have reportedly recalled Stephen Welsh from his loan spell at Motherwell. The Scottish defender has impressed at Fir Park this season, with a number of clubs linked to sign him on a permanent basis. However, Celtic have exercised a recall option on the defender as they look to ease the loss of Cameron Carter-Vickers.

In 17 appearances for the Steelmen under Jens Berthel Askou, Welsh has impressed in the Dane’s possession based style.However, according to Sky Sports, Welsh has been recalled to Paradise and is expected to return into the first team picture under Martin O’Neill.

The Irishman wants cover at the back, especially with Jamhai Simpson-Pusey returning to Man City.

The 25-year-old was the subject of an approach from Aberdeen.

The Dons could look to bring Welsh in later in the window but clearly Celtic are looking to keep their options open. MON is expected to utilise Welsh as a first team squad player, which makes sense given the lack of an established right sided central defender.

Welsh has made 68 appearances for Celtic, scoring four goals and assisting once.

The defender has played under Neil Lennon, Ange Postecoglou and Brendan Rodgers, who sanctioned his loan move, but he will be hoping to breakthrough under MON as Celtic look to hunt down Hearts and Rangers in pursuit of the title.