Celtic right-back Anthony Ralston signed a new deal with the club last week that stretches until the summer of 2027. The Scotland international has not played much football this season but is a pivotal member of the squad at Parkhead.

Having been at the club for practically his whole career up to this point, Ralston knows Celtic inside out and according to Darren O’Dea, his persistent mentality is the perfect example for the Hoops’ younger players.

The Celtic B gaffer spoke exclusively to CeltsAreHere following his side’s 1-0 win over the University of Stirling on Saturday. He said: “Anthony Ralston is the exact example of someone that just didn’t take no for an answer that just kept going, going and going and he’s got his rewards. That kid has earned everything he’s got and everyone in the club is delighted for him and as a club you’re delighted to keep him.”

Having players of Ralston’s ilk in and around the club is crucial for any team. He is someone who is ever-dependable, and evidently determined.

The 24-year-old could well end up spending his whole career with Celtic, and it is fair to say few would complain if he did so. The treble-winner is sufficient backup for whoever plays at right full-back, and his knowledge of the club through being a supporter and spending all of his career there can be challenged by few.