Celtic have taken a positive step in securing their future by agreeing a new four-year deal with Francis Turley [Record Sport]. The 18-year-old, who has been part of Stephen McManus’s B squad, has clearly caught the eye of Brendan Rodgers. Turley, who arrived from Glentoran’s youth set-up two years ago, has been impressing steadily, even earning a spot on the first team’s USA pre-season tour.
This new contract is a significant move, especially given the recent departures of promising young talent like Rocco Vata to Watford and Daniel Kelly’s uncertain status after being demoted to the B team amid contract renewal struggles. Unlike these recent exits, Celtic have managed to secure Turley’s future, showing faith in his potential to eventually break into the first team.
It’s a move that bucks the trend and gives hope that Turley will follow in the footsteps of other academy graduates who’ve made a name for themselves with the Bhoys. Fans will be eager to see if the Northern Irish youth international can seize the opportunity and carve out a place in the squad over the next few seasons.
Celtic kick off their new SPFL campaign this weekend against Kilmarnock, where the Bhoys will unfurl the league flag before getting down to business. With momentum from pre-seaso, there’s every chance Turley could be named among the subs. Fans will be watching closely to see if the youngster gets his first taste of top-flight action as Celtic begin their quest to defend the title.
