STEPHEN WELSH has been steady since coming in half way through last season for Celtic.
The youngster got thrown into the deep end once it became apparent Shane Duffy was not up to the job at Celtic.
He was one of the only youngsters to get a game under Neil Lennon and John Kennedy on a consistent basis – out of necessity.
The defender put all his experience into practice last night and by half time he became the senior defender when Nir Bitton stupidly got himself sent off.
Dane Murray came in and played well but he certainly followed Welsh’s lead. Stephen was strong in the tackle and limited Midtjylland’s attacking opportunities.
The young centre-back was CeltsAreHere.com man of the match for sure.
Social media can be an unforgiving space, but it can also be a place where players are praised when they put in the sort of shift Welsh managed on Tuesday night.
Many supporters were full of praise, with some even surprised about how well he played.
Stephen Welsh outstanding tonight, didn’t put a foot wrong
— Seán Markus Clifford (@seanmarkus_67) July 20, 2021
For all that was being said about the defence beforehand, both Stephen Welsh and Dane Murray deserve huge credit
After the red card, thought they were solid for the most part throughout and put in a good performance. Still some additions needed in there though
— Lewis ? (@LewisLaird01) July 20, 2021
Stephen Welsh has been tremendous.
— Ciaran (@ciaranforemann) July 20, 2021
Amongst all that chaos, worth pointing out Stephen Welsh was solid at the back in that half. Now he has to look after an 18 year old defensive partner in a massive European game. How many baptisms of fire has that poor kid had over the last year? #CELMID #CELTICFC
— Dominik Diamond (@DominikDiamond) July 20, 2021
Stephen Welsh has been excellent
— beans (@fatboybeans) July 20, 2021
Welsh still has a long way to go, but if he can continue to develop and refine his game, he could become a top option for Celtic. Right now, we shouldn’t get carried away when it comes to the academy star.
He still needs to show he can deal with the rigours of a very physical Scottish Premiership on a consistent basis, but he has that chance.
A brilliant performance by young Welsh. He is a strong fit centre back who gives his all. He patrolled the defence all night and apart from a couple of misplaced passes, he was outstanding.
Get this young man tied on a good contract. Well done Stephen.