Brendan Rodgers hints Celtic stay could go beyond current deal as he issues reminder of Parkhead promise

Brendan Rodgers has hinted he could remain at Celtic beyond his three year Parkhead promise.

The Hoops boss is thrilled defender Alistair Johnston has penned a new deal at the Premiership champions until 2029. And the Irishman has left the door open on doing likewise. Rodgers is almost halfway through the three year deal agreed on his return in the summer of 2022 having vowed on day one to see it out. But the 51-year-old admitted he is feeling right at home at the club – and he could be open to extension talks next season.

Rodgers said: “What did I say on my first day here? Three years unless I get bumped early! Listen, I said I'd be here for three years. At the end of three years, I'll have done nearly six years as Celtic manager which is a long time for a Celtic manager. I haven't really thought about it.

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"For near on a year, there was probably more people that wanted me out than in so I'm not going to be talking about new contracts now! I just need to continue to work well, do my very best for the club and I'm pretty sure at some point next season we can see how we're going and take it from there.

"But at the minute, I love my life here, it's amazing club to work in. Funny enough, going away and coming back has made it even better for me because I knew what I missed when I was away. I'm not in a big rush to be leaving again. It's a great place to be, I love working with the players.

"They say in life, the biggest currency you have is time. As you get to 51 and older, you realise that. Time around people you love, your family, your workplace. And I would have to agree with that. Where I am at the minute, I'm at a brilliant place so we'll just keep it that way.”

Rodgers was thrilled to secure Johnston on a new long term deal with the Canada star emerging as a key part of Celtic’s recent success. He said: “Really pleased. The club are really good on that side, getting players committed long-term to the club, of course, they won’t always stay here, but it protects the asset.

“But all the players sign with the intention of being here for a longer period, and none more so than Ali because he absolutely loves being a Celtic player. I’ve really enjoyed my time working with him, and I can see his development, he’s got so many attributes on and off the pitch that help this club. So delighted he’s signed.”