O'Neill: New Celtic Boss Will Welcome Trio's Contract Extensions

Interim Celtic manager Martin O'Neill has expressed confidence that any incoming permanent boss will be delighted with the club's proactive approach to securing the futures of three key players. The veteran winger James Forrest, defender Liam Scales, and midfielder Luke McCowan have all put pen to paper on new deals this week, a move O'Neill believes is a 'no-brainer' for the club's long-term stability.

Triple Boost for Celtic

Forrest, 34, extended his stay until the end of next season, while Scales committed until the summer of 2030, with Celtic holding an option for an additional year. McCowan's contract runs until 2028, also with a club option for a further 12 months. The deals come as O'Neill, in his second interim spell, chases a league and Scottish Cup double amid uncertainty over his own future beyond the summer.

When asked if it would have been wiser to allow a new manager to assess the squad before offering extensions, O'Neill was unequivocal. 'I think that's a very good point you make,' he said. 'But the new manager coming in would accept that he would definitely want these players. Are they fit enough? Yes. Are they good enough? Absolutely.'

He pointed to Scales as a prime example: 'Liam is 27, 28, his contract was running down. You want to do something about it now. We all see he can do it. I don't think my presence makes a big difference. He's good enough to play for this football club and to improve.'

James Forrest: A No-Brainer

O'Neill reserved special praise for veteran winger Forrest, who has served under multiple managers. 'James speaks for himself with what he has done. He's been a really great player. It doesn't matter who's going to be the manager — he's worked under quite a number and will impress whoever comes in. That's a no-brainer.'

McCowan, who has impressed in midfield, also earned O'Neill's backing. 'Luke has done really well for us. He'd like to start more games, but he's been excellent.'

The triple extension signals Celtic's commitment to squad stability as they prepare for a potential managerial transition. O'Neill, who previously managed the club to historic success, remains focused on finishing the season strongly. 'The club has been proactive, and I'm delighted for Liam, James, and Luke. Whoever comes in will enjoy working with these players.'

Key Takeaways

• James Forrest signed a one-year extension until 2026.
• Liam Scales committed until 2030, with a club option for 2031.
• Luke McCowan signed until 2028, with a similar option.
• O'Neill believes any new manager will benefit from the stability.
• Celtic are chasing a league and Scottish Cup double.

Source: Sky Sports

For more on Celtic's squad developments, check out our analysis on Celtic and the Scottish Premiership.