Brendan Rodgers delighted star man Alistair Johnston is staying put at Parkhead… and, on his own future, Celtic manager admits: ‘I’m not in a big rush to be leaving again’

Brendan Rodgers has welcomed right-back Alistair Johnston penning a long-term extension at Celtic – and hinted that he might be willing to do the same.

The 26-year-old Canadian International has pledged his future to the Scottish champions until 2029 after signing a new five-year deal.

Rodgers, who returned to the club last year, reiterated that he would see out his own three-year commitment which takes him through to 2026 – but indicated that he would be open to discussions with the board to extend that arrangement.

‘I said I’d be here for three years,’ he said. ‘At the end of three years I’ve done nearly six years as Celtic manager, which is a long time for a Celtic manager.

‘I haven’t really thought about it. Listen, I think for near on a year, I think there was probably more people wanting 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 then I’m pretty sure at some point next season or whatever we can see how we’re going and then take it from there.

Brendan Rodgers insists he is loving life back at Celtic and is no rush to leave again

‘At the minute, I love my life here, it’s an amazing club to work in. Funnily enough, going away and coming back has made it even better for me, because I knew what I missed when I was away so I’m not in a big rush to be leaving it again. But it’s a great place to be.

‘I love working with the players – they say in life that the biggest currency you have is time, and I think when you get to 51 and as you get older you realise that. 

‘Time around people you love, around your family, around your workplace, and I would have to agree with that. Where I am at the minute, I’m in a brilliant place, so just keep it that way.’

Rodgers welcomed news that talks with Johnston had been successfully concluded and how hopes that ongoing discussions with Greg Taylor – who is out of contract next summer – can also come to swift resolution.

‘I think the club are really good in that side and in the main getting players committed long-term to the club,’ he added.

‘Of course, it doesn’t always mean that they will be there, but at least it protects the asset.

‘But all the players do sign with the intention of being here for the 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. I can see his development, I can see him growing. He’s got so many attributes on and off the pitch that really help this team and this club. So, yes, delighted that he’s re-signed.

‘I don’t think there’s anything close (with Taylor) but I repeat it’s definitely something that I really want to do.

‘I have to respect both sides on that, from Greg’s side, from the club’s side. But, from a managerial side, I really want him to stay here, and I really hope that we can do everything we can to keep him.’