Martin O'Neill is of the opinion that any new boss who takes charge at Celtic will be delighted with the three fresh contracts he has secured for key squad members this week. The veteran winger James Forrest put pen to paper on Thursday, extending his stay at the Glasgow club until the conclusion of next season.
On Friday, the Parkhead side confirmed that Irish centre‑back Liam Scales has agreed to a new deal that locks him in until the summer of 2030, with Celtic retaining an option to add an additional year if they wish. The third extension belongs to midfielder Luke McCowan, who has committed his future to the club through 2028, again with a one‑year extension clause at the club’s discretion. O'Neill, now serving his second stint as interim manager after the exits of Brendan Rodgers and Wilfried Nancy, is still chasing a domestic double – the Scottish Premiership title and the Scottish Cup – but his own long‑term future remains uncertain. Nevertheless, he insists that, contract‑wise, Celtic are in safe hands regardless of who ultimately takes over the reins.
When asked whether it might be wiser to let a new manager assess the squad before offering fresh deals, O'Neill acknowledged the point, saying, "That's a very good observation, absolutely." He went on to outline three simple criteria that any incoming manager would likely consider: first, the desire to keep the players; second, their fitness levels; and third, their overall quality. "Liam Scales is 27‑28 now, his current contract is about to expire, so it makes sense to act now," O'Neill explained. He added that Scales has proven his worth and that his presence – whether O'Neill stays or departs – will not dramatically alter the club’s trajectory. "He is good enough to play for Celtic and will only get better with time.
That's how the club sees him, and I'm delighted for both him and the team," he said. Regarding Forrest, O'Neill praised the winger’s consistency, noting that his contributions speak for themselves. "James has been terrific, a great player who has performed under several managers. Whoever comes in will appreciate his experience – it’s a no‑brainer," O'Neill remarked.
He also highlighted Luke McCowan’s progress, saying the midfielder has done an excellent job and would love more regular starts. "He’s been excellent for us," O'Neill concluded.
The three contract renewals send a clear message to any prospective manager: the core of the squad is stable, fit, and of high quality. By securing Forrest, Scales and McCowan, Celtic have ensured continuity in key areas – wing play, defensive solidity and midfield depth – which should give a new coach a solid platform to build on. O'Neill’s proactive approach reflects a broader strategy at the club to lock down talent before the summer transfer window opens, avoiding the risk of losing players on free transfers. Beyond the immediate sign‑ons, the extensions also have financial implications.
Long‑term contracts can spread wage costs over several years, providing budgeting certainty. The optional extra year in both Scales’ and McCowan’s deals gives Celtic flexibility to retain the players if they continue to develop, while also protecting the club’s negotiating position should another team show interest. In a league where many clubs operate on tight budgets, such foresight is valuable. Fans have responded positively to the news, with many praising O'Neill’s decisive action.
Social media chatter highlighted the relief that key players will not be poached by rivals, and the optimism that a stable squad will aid the pursuit of a league‑cup double. The timing also aligns with the club’s broader recruitment plan, which reportedly includes targeting a new manager with a proven track record of developing talent and competing in European competitions. In summary, Martin O'Neill believes that by extending the contracts of James Forrest, Liam Scales and Luke McCowan, Celtic have laid a solid foundation for any incoming manager.
The trio brings experience, fitness and quality – exactly the attributes a new boss would want. O'Neill’s confidence that "proactive Celtic are in safe hands" underscores the club’s commitment to continuity and ambition, regardless of who ultimately takes charge after the summer. The message is clear: the core of the squad is secured, the future looks stable, and the door remains open for a manager who can build on this platform to achieve domestic glory and European progress.