Celtic’s Liam Scales reportedly voted to take stand against Israel | OneFootball

Celtic defender Liam Scales is at the centre of a modern footballing controversy today as Ireland prepare to face Israel. The 28-year-old started in Ireland’s midweek defeat to Kosovo but attention soon turned to the meeting against Israel in Debrecen, Hungary.

Last night, Bolton goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu elected to leave the Irish camp after advising that he could not face Israel as he takes a stance against the horrors of Gaza and the West Bank. Prior to the goalkeeper leaving, the Irish players were locked in meetings deciding whether to take action before finally voting on whether to fulfil the fixture.

As reported by The42.ie, Scales was one of a few Irish teammates to vote in favour of action while offering support for Bazunu. Despite this, the vote went through for the game to go ahead and teams are expected to line up this evening.

Liam Scales of the Republic of Ireland and Promise David of Canada during the international friendly match at Saputo Stadium on June 5, 2026 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. (Photo by Minas Panagiotakis/Getty Images)

It remains to be seen whether Scales is involved in the match. Judging by social media, any appearance would likely lead to a blowback on the 28-year-old. The players have found themselves in the middle of a storm and the events of yesterday clearly highlighted that their football association were clueless as to what action to take. The report states that players were discussing what steps they could take in order to show support for the Palestinian people.

UEFA Nations League Group Stage, Fadil Vokrri Stadium, Pristina, Kosovo 24/9/2026 Kosovo vs Republic of Ireland Ireland s Liam Scales and MÃrgim Vojvoda of Kosovo Liam Scales and MÃrgim Vojvoda 24/9/2026. Photo PRB1 IMAGO

The fallout from this game will be far-reaching and hopefully Scales is not caught up in it. The defender has clearly made his views felt if it is being reported that he was one that voted in favour of some action. Hopefully he is not involved and he does not have to field any criticism. Celtic supporters have been vocal on the ‘StopTheGame’ campaign as they urged the FAI to take a stand.

UEFA Nations League Group Stage, Fadil Vokrri Stadium, Pristina, Kosovo 24/9/2026 Kosovo vs Republic of Ireland Kosovo s Edon Zhegrova and Liam Scales of Ireland Edon Zhegrova and Liam Scales 24/9/2026 Photo RB1 – IMAGO

Scales has made 163 appearances for Celtic, scoring 9 goals and assisting on 12 occasions. The County Wicklow-born defender has been a solid figure for Celtic since arriving back from a loan at Aberdeen. Brendan Rodgers really took Scales’ game on and he has become an accomplished first team option.  For his faults, he always continues to work hard and show for the ball.

HAVE YOUR SAY – Join the Celtic conversation in our comments section below…

Celtic in the Fifties by Matt Corr, in two volumes, both published on 4th September 2026 by Celtic Star Books. Click on image to order.

Quick Tip – Add Celticshorts.com as your ‘Preferred Source’ on Google News for quick access to the Celtic content you value the most. It takes just a few seconds and you’ll notice the difference straight away! – Click HERE….Hail Hail!