Celtic academy kid Liam Bonetig, who signed for the Bhoys last September after an initial period on trial, has opened up on his time in Scotland so far and first-team ambitions.
The Australian penned a three-year deal at Parkhead and has played in both the Lowland League and UEFA Youth League this campaign.
Still just 18, Bonetig has yet to make an appearance for Brendan Rodgers’ first-team but he has trained with them.
Capable at both centre-back and right-back, the Aussie reckons he isn’t far away from getting an opportunity.
He said: [FTBL] “We see the first team every day, and there are times I’ve trained with them – it gives you a taste of it and you realise you’re not that far off. A couple of the boys from the U-23s are getting minutes now under Brendan Rodgers and they’re always looking for the youngsters to push on.”
Given the stiffness of competition in the Hoops’ senior side, chances for youngsters are difficult to come by.
In fairness, the likes of Daniel Kelly, Rocco Vata, and Mitchel Frame have all been given opportunities at one point or another throughout the season.
Bonetig, though, has admitted that he could soon move away on loan if he doesn’t get many minutes.
He said: “Perhaps halfway through next season, if I can’t break into the senior squad here maybe get a loan elsewhere to experience some first team football. That’s what you often see happen here – it’s really a stepping stone towards the first team.”
Moving to the other side of the world as a teenager may seem intimidating, but Bonetig has relished the challenge.
The overall structure at Celtic has helped him settle in amply. He said: “Coming here on trial initially opened my eyes to how big Celtic are and I think I’ve settled in pretty well.
“The way of playing throughout the club is out from the back, and that suits me as a ball playing centre half.”
Bonetig’s name is one to keep an eye on over the next few years. The Hoops have had their fair share of prosperous Aussies in the past, and the teen will be looking to add his name to the list.
