Martin O'Neill is confident that any new boss who takes over at Celtic will be delighted with the trio of fresh contracts he has secured this week. The former manager, currently serving his second stint as interim head coach after the exits of Brendan Rodgers and Wilfried Nancy, has overseen extensions for three key players, a move he believes will give any future manager a solid foundation.
The first signing was veteran winger James Forrest, who put pen to paper on Thursday to remain at Celtic until the conclusion of the 2024‑25 season. Forrest, now 34, has been a mainstay on the right flank for many years, and his new deal ensures that his experience and work ethic will stay at Parkhead for at least another campaign. A day later the club announced that Irish centre‑back Liam Scales had also committed his future to the Bhoys.
Scales’ new contract runs through the summer of 2030, with Celtic retaining an option to extend it for an additional year. The 27‑year‑old defender has become a reliable figure in the back line, and the long‑term deal reflects the board’s belief in his continued development.
The third extension was handed to midfielder Luke McCowan, who has now signed on until 2028, again with a one‑year club option. McCowan has been praised for his versatility and tenacity in midfield, and the extended term gives him ample time to grow into a more prominent role. When asked whether it might be wiser to let a new manager assess the squad before offering fresh contracts, O'Neill acknowledged the point but argued that the timing was appropriate. "The incoming manager will certainly want these players," he said.
"First, they need to be fit enough to perform – they are. Second, they need to be good enough – they absolutely are." He used Scales as an example, noting that the defender’s contract was nearing its end and that it made sense to secure his services now rather than risk losing him later.
"We all see that Liam can deliver for Celtic, so my presence or anyone else's doesn’t change that reality," O'Neill added. "He is good enough to play for the club now and will only get better with time." O'Neill also praised Forrest, stating that the winger "speaks for himself" with his consistent performances over the years.
"He has been terrific, regardless of who is in charge, and will continue to impress whoever takes over. It’s a no‑brainer," the interim manager said. Regarding McCowan, O'Neill highlighted the midfielder’s desire for more game time and his overall contribution to the team.
"Luke has done really well for us. He would love to start more games, and he has been excellent when called upon," O'Neill remarked. The interim boss, who is still chasing a Scottish Premiership and Scottish Cup double, admitted that his own future beyond the summer remains uncertain.
Nevertheless, he expressed confidence that Celtic is in "safe hands" with the new contracts in place, regardless of who eventually assumes the permanent role. In summary, O'Neill believes that securing Forrest, Scales and McCowan on long‑term deals not only rewards their individual performances but also provides any incoming manager with a core group of proven talent.
The extensions send a clear message that Celtic is committed to stability and continuity, allowing the next head coach to focus on tactical improvements and title ambitions rather than having to rebuild the squad from scratch. This strategic approach, O'Neill contends, will help the club maintain its competitive edge in the Scottish Premiership and on the European stage.