Celtic’s modern era has been defined by dominance, continuity, and identity. Few players embody all three quite like James Forrest. Now, with a newly signed one-year extension keeping him at Celtic until the end of the 2026/27 season, the winger’s remarkable one-club story will continue into an 18th campaign.
For a player who arrived at the club’s academy at the age of nine, Forrest’s journey has gone beyond longevity to become something far more significant. He is a living thread connecting multiple Celtic generations. From scoring on his debut in May 2010 against Motherwell to influencing matches deep into his thirties, Forrest has evolved alongside the club’s sustained domestic success.
His numbers alone place him in rarefied company. Across 564 appearances, he has delivered 110 goals and 112 assists, a level of output that highlights both consistency and adaptability. This season, with 36 appearances, he has once again demonstrated his ability to impact games, most recently contributing in a 6 to 2 Scottish Cup semi-final win over St Mirren.
Statistics only tell part of the story. Perhaps more revealing is Forrest’s extraordinary scoring record. He has found the net in every single season since his debut. That streak was extended with a goal against Aberdeen before Christmas, which underlines his ability to adapt his role while maintaining a decisive end product.
His trophy haul further strengthens his status. With 26 major honours, including 13 league titles, seven Scottish Cups, and six League Cups, Forrest stands as Celtic’s most decorated player. In an era where squad turnover is constant and long-term loyalty is rare, his career offers a striking contrast.
Speaking after signing his new deal, Forrest’s words reflected both humility and ongoing ambition.
“I’m absolutely delighted. I’ve been here my full career and I’ve loved every minute of it,” he said. “We’ve been so successful, and I’m grateful for the chance to continue. I’ll just give everything I can for as long as I’m here.”
There is no sense of winding down, only a focus on contribution.
“While I’m still playing, I want to keep helping the team. When I do stop, I’ll look back on incredible memories, but hopefully there are still more to come.”
Manager Martin O’Neill was keen to stress that sentiment has played no role in the decision to extend Forrest’s stay, which is a telling detail in an elite environment.
“The key question is always whether a player deserves another year, and James has shown that he does,” he said. “He’s changed games this season, particularly off the bench, and his impact has been outstanding.”
O’Neill also highlighted the qualities that have defined Forrest’s longevity, including directness, intelligence, and a rare ability to unsettle defenders even now.
“He’s the type of player I love, someone who takes people on. Even at this stage of his career, that burst of pace and willingness to attack defenders is invaluable.”
In many ways, Forrest’s extension is about more than just squad depth or experience. It reflects the importance of preserving a link to a winning culture, through a player who not only witnessed success but actively shaped it.
Moreover, despite his advancing years, Forrest remains a vital contributor and enduring symbol of what Celtic should be about. While his legacy is already firmly established, his story continues to unfold for at least another year.
Photograph credit: Celtic Football Club.
Callum McFadden 