Martin O'Neill is of the opinion that whichever manager eventually takes the helm at Celtic will be thrilled with the three new contracts he has secured this week. The first of those agreements was sealed on Thursday when seasoned winger James Forrest, now 34, agreed to remain at the club until the close of the next season.

The following day, Celtic announced that Irish centre‑back Liam Scales had committed his future to the Parkhead side through the summer of 2030, with the club retaining an option to prolong the deal by an additional year. The third extension involved midfielder Luke McCowan, who signed a contract that runs until 2028, again with a one‑year club option built in. O'Neill, who is currently serving his second stint as interim manager after the exits of Brendan Rodgers and Wilfried Nancy, is still pursuing a domestic double of the Scottish Premiership and the Scottish Cup.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding his own tenure beyond the summer, he expressed confidence that the squad is in "safe hands" thanks to the proactive approach taken with these new deals. When asked whether it might be wiser to allow a new permanent manager to assess the playing group before offering fresh contracts, O'Neill agreed that the point was valid. He explained, "I think that's a very good point you make.

Absolutely. The incoming manager will certainly want to know that the players he inherits are fit and capable of delivering results." He went on to outline three simple criteria that any new boss would consider: first, the desire to retain the players; second, their physical readiness; and third, their overall quality. "Liam Scales is 27‑28 years old and his contract is about to expire.

You would want to sort that out now rather than later," O'Neill said. "We all see that he can perform at the required level, so my presence – whether I'm still here or not – won't change that fact." O'Neill praised Scales, noting that the defender has proven himself this season and that his abilities will only improve with time.

"He is good enough to play for Celtic and to get better as the years go by. That's how I see it, and more importantly, that's how the club sees it," he added, expressing genuine delight for both the player and the organization.

Turning to James Forrest, O'Neill remarked that the veteran's contributions speak for themselves. "He has been terrific here, a truly great player. It doesn't matter who the next manager is; he's worked under several coaches and will continue to impress whoever arrives.

In fact, it's a no‑brainer – any manager would love to have him in the squad." Regarding Luke McCowan, the interim boss said the midfielder has performed admirably and would welcome more regular starts. "Luke has done really well for us. He would like to start more games if he could, but he has been excellent," O'Neill commented, highlighting the player's professionalism and potential.

Overall, O'Neill's message was clear: the club has taken decisive action to secure key members of the roster, ensuring continuity and stability regardless of who eventually assumes permanent charge. By locking in Forrest, Scales and McCowan on long‑term deals, Celtic have demonstrated a commitment to building on the foundations laid this season while giving any future manager a solid core to work with. The broader context of the Scottish Premiership remains dynamic, with transfer activity and managerial changes constantly reshaping the landscape. Celtic's proactive contract strategy positions them well to compete for titles and maintain a competitive edge.

Fans can follow Sky Sports on WhatsApp for up‑to‑date news, videos, analysis and more, while the club continues to chase success on the field and security off it. In summary, O'Neill believes that the recent trio of extensions – Forrest until next season, Scales until 2030 (with an optional extra year), and McCowan until 2028 (also with an option) – will be welcomed by any incoming manager.

These contracts safeguard the squad's core, affirm the players' quality, and provide a stable platform for future achievements, regardless of the managerial changes that may occur after the summer.