James Forrest isn’t going anywhere just yet.
The Celtic veteran has signed a new one year deal that will carry him into his 18th season at the club, extending a remarkable career that has already made him the most decorated player in Celtic history.
At 34, Forrest was approaching the end of his contract this summer, but there was always a sense this story might have another chapter. That has now been confirmed.
He has featured 36 times this season, largely coming off the bench, but still finding ways to make an impact. His contribution in the Scottish Cup semi final win over St Mirren was another reminder that he can still influence games when it matters.
With changes expected in the squad ahead of next season, keeping someone with his experience and understanding of the club feels like a deliberate move rather than a sentimental one.
Speaking after signing the extension, Forrest made it clear where his heart has always been.
“I’m absolutely delighted. I’ve been here my full career and I’ve loved every minute of it.
“We’ve been so successful in my time here and I’m delighted to have signed another year, and I’ll just give my best to the club for however long I’ll be here.
“While I’m still playing, I can hopefully keep contributing and helping the team when I can, and I’m just going to give it everything until I finish.”
Martin O’Neill was just as pleased to get the deal done, but he was quick to stress that this decision was based on performance, not nostalgia.
“I really want James to finish his career here at Celtic, and I just didn’t want him to be going elsewhere, and I think he wanted that as well.
“But the major point about taking anyone on is to know whether they’re worth an extra year, and James has proved this season that he has been worth that.”
O’Neill pointed to Forrest’s ability to change games, particularly from the bench, as a key reason behind the extension.
“He has changed games and he has done wonderfully well.
“His contribution in recent weeks when he’s come off the bench has been absolutely terrific, and he has deserved it, and that’s the point.
“So, take sentimentality right out of it, he’s deserved it.”
There was also a nod to the journey Forrest has been on at the club, from a young prospect breaking through under Neil Lennon to a player who has seen and won it all.
“He’s been immense for the football club since Neil Lennon brought him in when he was a young kid in the reserves, and he is what I love. I love players who take people on, and he can take people on. Even to have that little burst of pace at his age is worth its weight in gold.”
Forrest may no longer be starting every week, but his value is still clear. And for at least one more season, he remains exactly where he has always wanted to be.