James Forrest has committed to another year with Celtic after penning one-year contract extension.
The one-club man was facing the prospect of leaving his boyhood club at the end of the season. But hot on the heels of Alistair Johnston signing a bumper new deal, Forrest has put pen to paper on a one-year extension that will take him until the end of the 2025/26 campaign.
It seemed as if Forrest‘s time at Parkhead could be coming to an end last season, with the winger on the fringes of the squad. But a resurgence in form at a key time of the season saw him make a telling contribution as Celtic motored clear of a faltering Rangers to claim a third successive Premiership crown, as well as another Scottish Cup for the collection. Forrest has four assists in 16 outings for the champions so far this season and he’s delighted to be remaining in the Celtic “bubble” for another season.
“It’s unbelievable,” Forrest said. “I’ve loved every minute of being here, from being a wee boy coming through the youth and all the ups that I’ve had playing for the first team. I’m just delighted that I’ve managed to work hard and hopefully I can keep contributing to the team for another year.
“There’s always been great players and managers at this club, and being a part of this club is a great feeling and once I finish my career I’ll properly look back and think about it all. When you’re in the bubble of it, there’s nothing better than playing and winning things here.”
Manager Brendan Rodgers added: “This announcement is brilliant news for the club.”
“James has given everything to Celtic and so much to me personally, but make no mistake, he has so much more to give. I look at last season and this one already, and see a player undoubtedly who will still deliver for us.
“He is a born winner, someone with such talent and desire and I know he can play a hugely important role in bringing us continued success. His heart and passion will always be with Celtic and I am so pleased he has decided to extend his contract.”