Roy Keane Completely Destroyed Liam Scales After Shaky Display in Celtic’s Dramatic Stoppage-Time Win Over Motherwell
In a no-holds-barred post-match verdict on ITV Sport, Roy Keane unleashed a scathing attack on Celtic defender Liam Scales following the Hoops’ dramatic 3-2 victory against Motherwell at Fir Park on Wednesday night (May 13, 2026).Celtic twice fought back from behind, with Kelechi Iheanacho’s penalty in the 99th minute securing a priceless three points that keeps their Scottish Premiership title hopes alive. However, the performance was far from convincing, and Keane singled out Scales for heavy criticism.
The Republic of Ireland international started alongside Auston Trusty at centre-back but endured a difficult night. He was repeatedly caught out of position against Motherwell’s direct attacks, struggled aerially, and was partly at fault for Liam Gordon’s 85th-minute goal that looked to have won it for the hosts.
Scales also picked up a late booking for a rash challenge.Speaking on ITV, Keane did not hold back: “Liam Scales? That performance was nowhere near the level required for Celtic. Slack, sloppy, and lacking concentration at key moments. He’s had a decent season overall, but tonight he looked nervous and unsure.
That mistake nearly cost his team dearly. If you’re playing for Celtic at this stage of the season, you have to show more composure and fight. It’s simply not good enough.”Keane continued his trademark blunt assessment: “You can’t have these lapses when you’re chasing a title. Celtic needed warriors out there, not passengers giving away cheap goals.
He’ll know himself it wasn’t acceptable.”Under manager Martin O’Neill, Celtic showed tremendous character to snatch the win deep into stoppage time. The result leaves them just one point behind leaders Hearts heading into the final day showdown at Celtic Park.While Scales has been a reliable performer this campaign, nights like this highlight the intense scrutiny that comes with wearing the green and white. Fans and pundits alike will expect a strong response as Celtic prepare for what could be a historic title decider.The defender will undoubtedly be reflecting on Keane’s words as the squad focuses on Saturday’s massive clash.