Martin O'Neill is confident that any future Celtic boss will be thrilled with the trio of new contracts he has secured this week. The veteran manager, now serving his second stint as interim head coach after the exits of Brendan Rodgers and Wilfried Nancy, has overseen extensions for three key squad members, reinforcing the club’s core as it chases a domestic double.
The first signing was veteran winger James Forrest, who put pen to paper on Thursday. The 34‑year‑old will remain at Celtic until the conclusion of the next season, adding another year of experience and pace to the right flank.
Forrest’s longevity at the club has made him a fan favourite, and O'Neill highlighted that his professionalism and work ethic set a benchmark for younger players. On Friday, the club announced that Irish centre‑back Liam Scales had agreed to a fresh deal that ties him to the Parkhead side until the summer of 2030, with an option for Celtic to extend the agreement for an additional year. Scales, now 27, has become a mainstay in the defensive line, and his new contract reflects the board’s desire to keep a reliable presence at the heart of the back four for the foreseeable future. The third extension involved midfielder Luke McCowan, who has committed his future to Celtic until 2028, also with a club‑held option to add another year.
McCowan’s versatility in midfield, coupled with his willingness to step up when called upon, has earned him praise from both supporters and the coaching staff. When asked whether it might be wiser to allow a new manager to evaluate the squad before offering fresh contracts, O'Neill acknowledged the point but argued that securing the players now removes any uncertainty.
"A new manager will certainly want to keep these players," he explained. "First, he’ll recognise their quality; second, he’ll assess their fitness – and they’re fit; third, he’ll judge their ability – and they’re more than capable." He used Scales as a case in point, noting that the defender’s contract was nearing its end and that it made sense to act proactively. "We all see that Liam can perform at the highest level, so my presence – whether I stay or leave – won’t change that fact.
He’s good enough to play for Celtic now and will only improve with time," O'Neill said. O'Neill also praised Forrest, stating that the winger essentially speaks for himself through his performances. "James has been terrific for us.
It doesn’t matter who takes over; he’s delivered under several managers and will continue to impress whoever is in charge. It’s a no‑brainer to keep him," the interim boss added. Regarding McCowan, O'Neill highlighted the midfielder’s desire for more playing time and his overall contribution to the team.
"Luke has done really well for us. He’d love to start more games, and he’s been excellent when given the chance," O'Neill remarked.
While O'Neill’s interim tenure continues, his contract situation remains uncertain beyond the summer. Nevertheless, he believes that the club’s proactive approach to contract renewals places Celtic in a stable position, regardless of who eventually assumes the permanent managerial role. "Proactive Celtic are in safe hands with these new deals," he affirmed. The announcements came alongside a broader push by Sky Sports to keep fans updated via WhatsApp, offering the latest news, videos, features and analysis from the Scottish Premiership.
Celtic supporters can also follow live league tables, stream matches, and watch highlights for free, ensuring they stay connected to the action throughout the season. In summary, O'Neill’s recent contract extensions for Forrest, Scales and McCowan not only secure vital experience and talent for Celtic but also send a clear signal to any incoming manager: the squad’s core is solid, motivated, and ready to compete for titles. The club’s willingness to act swiftly on renewals demonstrates a long‑term vision aimed at maintaining competitiveness in both the league and the Scottish Cup, while also providing continuity for players who have proven their worth on the pitch.