Celtic defender Stephen Welsh has promised to fight his way into the KV Mechelen team after joining the Belgian side on a six-month loan deal.
The Scottish champions confirmed they have accepted an offer for the 24-year-old from Coatbridge, who needs regular game-time that he currently isn’t getting at Celtic Park.
Indications are that Celtic would be open to a permanent deal for Welsh, should the loan be successful, and he is fourth choice behind fellow defenders Cameron Carter-Vickers, Auston Trusty and Liam Scales.
Welsh has played just twice this season, in a 5-2 Premier Sports Cup win over Championship leaders Falkirk and a 0-0 draw at Dundee United last month.
Celtic said in a statement: “Everyone at Celtic Football Club wishes Stephen all the best in his loan spell at KV Mechelen.”
The player himself told KV Mechelen’s website: “I want to fight my way into the team as soon as possible.
“They have shown for some time that they would like to have me there.
“I am delighted to be able to sign for this great club. In the coming months I want to fight together with the team and the supporters and achieve great results. I am looking forward to it!
“My contract here runs until the summer, so I will do everything I can to be successful with the team. My full focus now is on being able to play for KV as soon as possible.”