James Forrest, the veteran winger who has become synonymous with Celtic Football Club, has confirmed a fresh agreement that will see him remain at the Parkhead side for another campaign. The 34‑year‑old, who holds the distinction of being the most decorated player in the club’s modern era, has added a one‑year extension to his existing terms, ensuring his services will be on offer for the upcoming Scottish Premiership season. Forrest’s trophy cabinet is unrivaled at Celtic. Over the course of his tenure he has amassed an astonishing 26 major honours, a haul that includes 13 league crowns, seven Scottish Cups and six League Cups.
Those figures illustrate not only his longevity but also his consistent contribution to a team that has dominated Scottish football for nearly two decades. In total, Forrest has found the net 110 times in 564 appearances, a goal in every single one of the 17 seasons he has been a Celtic player – a testament to his reliability and knack for delivering when it matters.
In a heartfelt interview posted on the club’s official website, Forrest expressed his delight at the new deal. "I’m absolutely delighted," he said. "I’ve been here my whole career and I’ve loved every minute of it.
We’ve been so successful in my time here and I’m thrilled to have signed another year. I’ll give my best to the club for however long I’m here." He went on to reflect on the future, noting, "While I’m still playing I hope to keep contributing and helping the team whenever I can. I’ll give it everything until I finish. When I do stop, I’ll look back on countless great memories, but I hope I can add a few more before I hang up my boots." Manager Martin O’Neill echoed Forrest’s enthusiasm, emphasizing the club’s desire to retain the seasoned professional.
"I really want James to finish his career here at Celtic," O’Neill said. "I didn’t want him to go elsewhere, and I think he felt the same. The key question when you consider extending anyone’s contract is whether they’re worth that extra year, and James has proven this season that he absolutely is." O’Neill highlighted Forrest’s impact off the bench, noting that his recent substitute appearances have been "absolutely terrific" and have justified the decision to keep him.
"He’s changed games, he’s done wonderfully well, and he deserves it. Sentimentality aside, he’s earned this extension," the manager added. He also praised Forrest’s early days, recalling how Neil Lennon brought the youngster into the reserves and how the winger’s speed, even at his age, remains a valuable asset. "He can still burst past defenders, and that pace is worth its weight in gold," O’Neill remarked.
Celtic captain Callum McGregor also weighed in, describing the extension as "massively deserved." McGregor pointed out that Forrest’s deep understanding of the club’s culture and expectations makes him an indispensable figure. "He knows the fabric of the place, how it operates, and what it takes to be a successful Celtic player," McGregor said. "He’s won countless trophies and brings huge experience; he’s always there when you need him.
That kind of reliability is invaluable." The captain went on to discuss the harsh realities of modern football, where sentiment often gives way to performance. "There’s not much room for sentiment.
If you’re not needed, you’re out the door. James’s continued presence shows just how important he is," McGregor explained. He praised Forrest’s adaptability, noting that each season brings new challenges and that Forrest has consistently shown different facets of his game to remain a mainstay.
"If you’re at a club like Celtic for this long, you must be doing something right," McGregor added. Beyond the statistics and accolades, both players and staff stress Forrest’s professionalism and his commitment to the club’s ethos. "He lives and breathes football and Celtic," McGregor said. "When you have guys like that – total professionals who always put the club’s best interests first – it’s crucial to keep them in the building and push forward together." Forrest’s extension also carries symbolic weight for younger players in the Celtic academy.
His journey from a reserve‑team prospect to a record‑holding senior star serves as a blueprint for aspiring talent. It demonstrates that dedication, adaptability, and a willingness to evolve can secure a long, rewarding career at one of Scotland’s biggest clubs.
Moreover, his willingness to accept a role that sometimes involves coming off the bench underscores a team‑first mentality that coaches cherish. In the broader context of the Scottish Premiership, retaining a player of Forrest’s calibre reinforces Celtic’s ambition to maintain dominance domestically while also competing in European competitions. His experience in high‑pressure matches, both in the league and on the continental stage, provides a steadying influence for younger teammates navigating the rigours of elite football.
Looking ahead, fans can anticipate seeing Forrest continue to contribute with his trademark wing play, incisive crosses, and occasional goal‑scoring bursts. While his speed may not be what it once was, his footballing intelligence, positioning, and ability to read the game ensure he remains a threat.
Whether starting or providing a spark as a substitute, his presence will likely be a factor in Celtic’s tactical plans throughout the season. In summary, James Forrest’s new one‑year contract is more than just a renewal; it’s a reaffirmation of his lasting legacy at Celtic, a nod to his unwavering professionalism, and a strategic move by the club to blend experience with emerging talent. As the season unfolds, supporters will be watching closely to see how Forrest adds to his already impressive résumé, hoping he can help the Hoops add yet another chapter to their storied history.
(Additional content such as live Scottish Premiership tables, streaming options, and promotional offers were omitted for brevity.)