Stephen Welsh penned a new four-year contract extension with Celtic on Friday morning that will see him stay at the club until at least the summer of 2027.

For Hoops’ fans, the news came as somewhat of a surprise. Few are complaining, though, and after putting pen to paper, Welsh himself claimed how simple it was to decide to stay. He said (celticfc.com): “Signing a new contract for the club that I’ve been brought up on and have supported my whole life was, for me, an easy decision to stay at the club for another four years at least hopefully. It’s time for me to kick on now, and hopefully, I can have a few good seasons.”

Welsh is an extremely useful player to have around at Celtic. He has been nothing but faithful to the club throughout his career thus far and has been rewarded with this new contract.

Since manager Brendan Rodgers was appointed back at the beginning of July, the 23-year-old’s fortunes have upturned. The Irishman has undoubtedly aided Welsh in his development, which is something the centre-back touched on: “He’s [Rodgers]  been massive for me since he’s come in. He’s one of the main reasons that I want to be at the club, and I’m just looking forward to starting the season properly and going for it.”

Rodgers’ return to Celtic has held many positives so far, and this is yet another. The double-treble-winning gaffer has most certainly had a constructive impact on the career of Welsh. Going forward, he is clearly part of the plans as the Bhoys gear up for what could be yet another successful season.