Martin O'Neill is convinced that whoever takes over the Celtic helm next season will be thrilled with the three new long‑term deals he has secured this week. The former manager, now serving his second stint as interim boss after the exits of Brendan Rodgers and Wilfried Nancy, has overseen a flurry of contract activity that he believes will give any future coach a solid foundation. The first of the agreements was signed by veteran winger James Forrest on Thursday. The 34‑year‑old, a long‑standing servant of the Parkhead side, has agreed to remain with Celtic until the conclusion of the 2024‑25 campaign.
Forrest’s experience, work ethic and familiarity with the club’s culture make him a valuable asset, and O'Neill stressed that his continued presence will help maintain continuity on the flank. A day later, Celtic announced that Irish centre‑back Liam Scales had committed his future to the club with a new contract that runs through the summer of 2030. The deal also includes an option for Celtic to extend the agreement for an additional year, giving the board flexibility to retain the 27‑year‑old defender well into his prime. O'Neill highlighted Scales’ rapid development and his importance to the defensive line, noting that the club acted promptly to avoid any uncertainty as his previous deal approached its end.
The third extension involved midfielder Luke McCowan, who has now signed on until 2028, again with a one‑year club option. McCowan, a product of Celtic’s youth system, has become a regular feature in the midfield rotation, and the new terms reflect both his current contributions and the belief that he will continue to grow into a more influential role.
When asked whether it might have been wiser to wait for a new permanent manager to assess the squad before offering fresh contracts, O'Neill acknowledged the point but argued that securing key players early is a proactive move that benefits the club regardless of who arrives. "A new manager will certainly want these players," he said. "The first question is: are they fit enough to perform?
Absolutely. The second is: are they good enough? Again, absolutely." He used Scales as an example, noting the defender’s age—approaching his late twenties—and the timing of his contract renewal. "You want to sort that out now rather than later," O'Neill explained, emphasizing that delaying could risk losing a player who has already proven his worth.
O'Neill also praised each of the three players individually. Regarding Scales, he said, "He has shown he can compete at the highest level for Celtic.
My presence or anyone else's won’t change that. He is good enough for the club now and will only get better with time. I’m delighted for him and for Celtic. He earned this contract through his performances this season." On Forrest, O'Neill remarked, "James essentially speaks for himself.
He’s delivered consistently over the years, regardless of who’s been in charge. He’s a no‑brainer for any manager who comes in." As for McCowan, the interim boss added, "Luke has performed admirably.
He would love more starts, and we’ll try to give him that. He’s already been excellent for us." The broader context of O'Neill’s comments is his own uncertain future.
While he continues to chase a domestic double—aiming for both the Scottish Premiership title and the Scottish Cup—his interim appointment is set to expire at the end of the season, and the club has not yet confirmed whether he will stay on permanently. Nevertheless, he remains confident that the club’s proactive approach to contract renewals puts Celtic in a secure position, regardless of any managerial changes.
In addition to the on‑field implications, the extensions send a clear signal to supporters and potential signings that Celtic is committed to building a stable, competitive squad. By locking in key players now, the club avoids the disruption that can accompany last‑minute negotiations or the loss of talent to rival teams.
Overall, O'Neill’s message is straightforward: the new contracts are a win‑win for the players, the club, and any future manager. The trio of extensions ensures that Celtic will retain a blend of experience, youthful energy, and home‑grown talent, providing a solid platform for continued success in Scotland’s top flight.
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