Alistair Johnston was quizzed this afternoon on whether he would like to see Brendan Rodgers extend his current deal, which expires at the end of the season.

Johnston, who has been a key player under Rodgers since his return to the Hoops in 2023, has seen his game elevated from a strong defender to an all-round full-back. He now often finds himself at the heart of creating chances for Celtic with his brilliant crossing ability—something that wasn’t as prominent under Ange Postecoglou.

The Canadian international sent a strong message to the Celtic support about how he feels regarding Rodgers potentially signing a new deal beyond the summer of 2026.

He said: (Celtic FC), “Yeah, no, look, the gaffer’s been great since he’s walked in the door. I think his résumé speaks for itself in terms of not only his time here, but his time abroad.

“Yeah, I mean, he’s a winner. It’s as simple as that. He’s a manager that you love to play for.

“So obviously, that’s definitely above my pay grade, those kind of decisions. So I think at the end of the day, it’ll come down to what the gaffer wants. I think that he’s proven time and time again what a top manager he is and how much he loves this club and how much he loves being here for the fans.

“So, look, I think that’ll be a decision between him and the club, but hopefully, yeah, there’s something that can keep him here for the long term. But I do believe he still has one more year left after this. No matter what, I know he’ll be here next year and that’s something that I think all of our fans and all the players are excited about.”

Johnston sounds hopeful that Rodgers will stay long-term, and you can’t help but feel that after this season’s Champions League performances and progress, the Irishman is building something special.

There’s no doubt the summer transfer window will be crucial in keeping Rodgers beyond next season. If he’s backed with signings who immediately improve the starting XI, that could be enough to convince him to sign a new deal.

Just as important, though, is keeping key players like Johnston and Daizen Maeda. Starting next season with a weaker squad than they finish this one would send the wrong message—that Celtic have peaked.

But if Rodgers is fully backed, a contract extension seems likely, which would delight everyone at the club and supporters. That in itself says a lot, considering such optimism wasn’t guaranteed when he first returned—proof of just how much he’s already achieved in his second spell.