It has been a rough ride for Kasper Schmeichel at Celtic this season.
While Celtic’s struggles overall go beyond one individual – highlighted by the fact three different managers have occupied the dugout – Schmeichel has not been immune from criticism. During Wilfried Nancy’s final game in charge against Rangers, the Danish goalkeeper was booed by sections of the home support after another error-strewn performance.
However, Schmeichel responded in the best possible way on Wednesday night. Under Martin O’Neill, he produced an assured display in Celtic’s victory over Falkirk, reminding supporters of his pedigree. Liam Scales was quick to give his teammate credit for that performance.
Liam Scales defends Kasper Schmeichel amid Celtic criticism
Celtic now turn their attention to Sunday’s Scottish Cup tie against Auchinleck Talbot at Rugby Park, where O’Neill is expected to rotate his starting XI heavily – potentially including a change in goal.
Ahead of the clash, Scales was asked in his pre-match press conference about Schmeichel and the criticism he has faced this season. The defender did not hesitate to defend the former Leicester City stopper, pointing to his recent display as proof of his continued value.
“He is brilliant,” Scales said. “Sometimes it’s just fine margins. There are ones you think he has saved and it’s just unlucky.
“He could have the same one again and he could save it. But he is a brilliant goalkeeper and has been a brilliant goalkeeper for years. He still has so much quality.
“He’s pulled off brilliant saves for us – especially against Falkirk. He made some great saves and they won us the game, so it’s good to see and brilliant to have a goalkeeper behind you performing like that.”
Who should be Celtic’s number one next season?
Regardless of how the current campaign ends, Celtic face a major decision this summer regarding their number one goalkeeper.
That call may not even fall to O’Neill, depending on who is in the dugout next season, but there is a growing sense that it could be time for Schmeichel to move on.
Viljami Sinisalo is waiting in the wings and has shown enough to suggest he could step up. Having brought the young goalkeeper in from Aston Villa, it would make little sense for Celtic to continue leaving him on the bench once Schmeichel departs.
The decision Celtic make between experience and succession could shape their next rebuild.
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