JAMES FORREST penned a new Celtic deal at the end of last season, extending his stay at Celtic until 2025, when the winger will be 34.

It was a surprise to find out he had been offered a new contract last season, especially given his lack of game time and injury struggles. But, it’s clear the manager sees something in the player and is keen to have him around, even if he’s not starting weekly.

When Si Ferry joked about taking the winger on loan to his side Open Goal Broomhill in the lowland league on the Open Goal Podcast, the manager made a point of talking up James Forrest and his influence on the squad.

“He’s a great guy and he’s great for this club.

“You need guys like him and that’s why we re-signed him last year.

“He’s still very much a part of the club and even though he’s not played a lot of football yet this season, he’ll play a big part in what we’re trying to do.

“When you’re building a football team it’s not just about the team itself.

“It’s about the people you’ve got in the building and how you build a culture.

“Culture to me is people, if you’ve got good people in the building then you don’t have to worry about things and he’s a really good one.

“He’s had a great career here and he’s still really motivated to do well so i’m pleased that we’re able to have him as part of the group.”

When there’s been so much change in the Celtic squad over the past few years, it’s good to keep experienced heads about. James Forrest may not be able to offer a lot on the pitch anymore, but his presence is still clearly valued by the manager.