Liam Shaw speaks as Celtic confirm loan exit; Shaun Maloney thanks Bhoys

Wigan Athletic have signed midfielder Liam Shaw on a season-long loan from Celtic, it was confirmed by both clubs this morning.

Shaw joined Celtic in the summer of 2021 but has failed to push himself into the club’s first-team plans. He’s spent previous spells out on loan at Motherwell and Morecambe.

The 22-year-old will play for Wigan in English League One until the end of the 2023/24 campaign, by which point he will have a year left on his contract at the Bhoys.

The midfielder said on completing the deal [Wigan Athletic FC]: “I’m really happy to be here. I’m looking forward to meeting everyone, getting to know the boys, and getting to business. It’s a massive Club, and when I spoke to the manager, I really bought into his vision and I can’t wait to get started!”

Wigan boss and former Celtic star Shaun Maloney added: “I’m really happy that Liam has joined the Football Club. I have to thank Celtic who pushed hard with us to get this deal done quickly.

“Liam can play many different positions – as a defensive and attacking midfielder – and he started off at centre back at Sheffield Wednesday.

“He’s a really good player and now our squad is really starting to take shape. He’s a great character and brings a different profile physically so I’m glad Liam has joined us for the season, and I hope he’s ready to fight for our cause.”

A loan move is the best thing for Shaw and for Celtic. The midfielder hadn’t been included on Celtic trips to Portugal and Japan recently so it became clear that he wouldn’t be getting a look in under Brendan Rodgers.

Shaw will now have the chance to catch the eye in England and attract suitors down the line, with the chances of making a breakthrough at the Bhoys growing increasingly slim.