Two Celtic Contracts Set to Expire in 7 Months
James Forrest: A Celtic Stalwart
James Forrest is the epitome of loyalty at Celtic. Having spent his entire professional career with the Hoops, the winger has made over 500 appearances since breaking into the first team in 2010. Over the years, he’s racked up an impressive tally of trophies.
However, at 33, Forrest is now more of a squad player than a first-choice starter. He’s been called upon in matches to help the team where he can, featuring from the bench or in cup games. Despite this, his experience and versatility make him a valuable asset to the squad, especially during long campaigns when depth is key.
The question facing Celtic now is whether to offer Forrest an extension or allow him to seek pastures new. While the romantic notion of keeping a one-club man in the squad holds appeal, the club will need to weigh up whether Forrest’s declining playing time justifies a new deal.
Greg Taylor: Underappreciated, But Crucial
In stark contrast, Greg Taylor has become an integral part of the first team since signing from Kilmarnock in 2019. The left-back has often flown under the radar, but his consistent performances have made him a mainstay in Celtic’s defence for Ange Postecoglou and Brendan Rodgers
Taylor’s hard work and reliability have earned him praise from his teammates and coaching staff, yet he often goes underappreciated by some sections of the support. Despite this, the 26-year-old remains a crucial part of Brendan Rodgers’ plans. His ability to support attacks while remaining defensively sound has been key to Celtic’s success in recent seasons.
However, with Taylor entering the final stretch of his current deal, there’s a risk that he might fancy a move elsewhere. At this stage of his career, he may seek a fresh challenge or a new league. Celtic will need to act swiftly to secure his future if they want to avoid losing one of their key contributors.
The Verdict: Keep Both or Prioritise Taylor?
When it comes to deciding the futures of both Forrest and Taylor, the club may need to make tough calls. While Forrest has been a loyal servant, his role in the squad is now more peripheral. Offering him a short-term extension could keep his experience in the dressing room, but it may be time for both parties to consider a future beyond Celtic Park.
On the other hand, Greg Taylor’s importance to the team cannot be overstated. He’s in his prime, and Celtic can ill afford to lose a first-team regular for nothing, especially in a position as crucial as left-back. Securing Taylor’s services for the long-term should be a priority for the club, as replacing him would likely cost significantly more than renewing his deal.
In short, while there’s a case for keeping both players, Celtic may ultimately need to prioritise Taylor, ensuring he stays put while allowing Forrest to explore other options. January will be a crucial month for the club as they navigate these contract situations.
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