James Forrest has thrown his weight behind Brendan Rodgers remaining at Celtic beyond the current season, describing the Irishman as a “top manager” and someone the entire dressing room wants to stay.

Rodgers is entering the final year of the three-year deal he signed when he returned to Parkhead in 2023. While he has reiterated his commitment to seeing out the contract, he has so far been non-committal on any extension, and speculation around his long-term future is never far from the surface.

Forrest, who has worked under Rodgers during both his Celtic spells, hailed the manager’s continued impact and echoed the wider sentiment within the squad.

“In his first spell, you look at the amount he’s won. He’s then come back and done the exact same thing,” Forrest said to SunSport. “Everyone loves working with him. The fans love him and everyone at the club would like him to stay. But it’s down to him.”

The winger added: “He won’t let that affect what he does on the training pitch or in games. But everyone, all the players, would obviously love him to stay. It would be good for the club.”

Rodgers has already tried to strengthen the squad this summer and is preparing for another title defence and a crucial Champions League qualifier next month.

There are still some obvious gaps needing to be filled, though. Kuhn’s exit leaves Celtic light on the wings, and Yang as the starting right winger.

For Forrest, the focus is on the campaign ahead, but he admits the dressing room is hoping for a longer-term commitment from the man in charge.

The longer Brendan Rodgers brushes away questions on his future, the longer the speculation has to grow.