Celtic have confirmed that their long-serving star has agreed a fresh one-year contract, setting the stage for an emotional farewell season at Parkhead.
The deal ensures the club icon will bring his remarkable playing career to a close where it all began, completing an extraordinary journey spanning more than two decades.
Now 34, the Celtic winger remains the longest-serving member of the current squad and stands as the most decorated player of the modern era. His new agreement will take his association with the club into a 26th year, underlining a story of loyalty rarely seen in modern football.
Having joined the Celtic youth system at just nine years old, he has spent his entire football life developing within the same club structure. He made his senior debut in May 2010 against Motherwell, coming off the bench and announcing himself in style with a goal just minutes after entering the pitch.
From that moment, he grew into far more than just a promising winger. Over the years, he became a key part of the squad, registering over 560 appearances, more than 100 goals, and a similar number of assists. His influence has stretched across multiple eras, managers, and tactical systems, yet his impact has remained consistent.
His trophy haul tells its own story. The Celtic star has collected 26 major honours, including multiple league titles, Scottish Cups, and League Cups, making him the most decorated player in the club’s history.
What separates him from many long-serving players is not just longevity, but continued contribution at a high level. Remarkably, he has managed to score in every season of his senior Celtic career, including the current campaign, proving he is still capable of influencing matches when called upon.
His presence has remained valuable both on and off the pitch, with his experience and reliability continuing to offer depth to the squad. Even in the later stages of his career, he has shown an ability to adapt and remain effective in different roles and systems.
The decision to extend his stay reflects both respect for his legacy and recognition of what he still brings to the team. Rather than a ceremonial ending, Celtic appear determined to allow one of their greatest servants to bow out while still contributing meaningfully on the pitch.
From academy prospect to club legend, his journey has been defined by consistency, loyalty, and success. Few players in modern football can claim to have spent their entire career at one elite club while maintaining such a level of performance and influence.
When he eventually plays his final match, he will leave Parkhead as one of Celtic’s greatest ever one-club men. More importantly, he will depart as a symbol of what dedication and long-term excellence can achieve in football.
