Despite a wealth of recent interest, the futures of Celtic stars Cameron Carter-Vickers and Matt O’Riley have been made certain. The former penned a new deal on Friday lasting until 2029, while manager Brendan Rodgers confirmed that O’Riley will be a Celt beyond January.
To have two key players tied down going into a crucial period of the season is hugely positive for Celtic. The club could have easily lost the two stars given the significance of the fees that could have been gained from the sales of Carter-Vickers and O’Riley, but they have not been tempted.
Ensuring the players’ long-term futures is something the board should be praised for, and it seems as though doing so has eased some worries within the dressing room.
Indeed, ‘keeper and senior squad member Joe Hart was delighted with Carter-Vickers’ new deal, and the rejection of Atletico Madrid’s approach for O’Riley: “Powerful moves, powerful moves”, he said (Glasgow Times).
“Cam is a top player and he is loved here, rightly so for the performances he puts in. He does it away from prying eyes as well, he is a top professional.”
At the heart of the defence, the American internationalist brings utmost stability. Carter-Vickers is a calming presence at the back, but O’Riley’s influence on the team is equally as crucial.
The Danish midfielder has registered over 20 goal contributions in all competitions in this campaign. Hart vastly praised him, saying: “He is an excellent player and someone I love playing with and being a part of from a social point of view.
“He shows his commitment every single day to what we’re trying to do and long may that continue.”
Within the Parkhead changing room, it is no surprise that the likes of Carter-Vickers and O’Riley are adorned. They seem to be loved by their teammates as much as the supporters and the fact their futures are certain will only serve to stabilise and improve squad morale.
