Luke McCowan has put pen to paper on a new Celtic deal that will see him remain at the club until 2028, with the option to extend his stay for another year. He joins teammates James Forrest and Liam Scales, who also signed contract extensions in the past day.
The midfielder has been getting more minutes recently, coming off the bench and helping to see out games. He has been preferred over other options as an impact sub, and now, he'll be looking to win a place in the starting eleven.
Since joining from Dundee in the summer of 2024, he has made 81 appearances for the Celts. During that time, he has contributed with 11 goals and 12 assists.
Speaking about the extension, McCowan said: "I’m just so happy that we got the deal over the line and now I’m able to help the boys for the coming years and be a part of this amazing squad.
"I think I’ve become a lot more mature in terms of winning and losing, and I’m dealing with a lot of press and media now.
"It’s just been great to learn from these guys who have been around this place for so long, and to push their message that they pushed to me, push that to the new players coming in and be part of that.
"To be a part of the team as well through winning and losing has been a massive part because nobody likes to lose, but when you do, you become closer as a team sometimes.
"We’ve been able to do that, but the highs have been absolutely amazing and hopefully there’s more to come with that."
Speaking about the aims for the rest of his time here, he said: "Just winning as many games and trophies as we can, put on good performances for the fans. For myself to contribute to that with goals and assists as much as I can, and try to grow as a player even more, learn more of the game.
"I’m really looking forward to the next coming years and hopefully it’s all about progression within each year, as each year needs to get better and better."
Celtic manager Martin O'Neill expressed his happiness over the extension. He said: "Luke’s had a major contribution in my time here.
"He’s a solid midfield player with a good eye for a pass, too, and close to goal you feel as if he’s going to put the ball on target. I’ve enjoyed his company and his time here, and he is genuinely a terrific lad."
Curtains for Reo Hatate
With the extension to McCowan's contract, it seems like it's curtains for Reo Hatate. The Japanese midfielder has often been an unused substitute, with the Scotsman being preferred over him.
Despite Hatate hitting a bit of form recently, he was quickly pushed back onto the bench. O'Neill clearly has his preferred option, and sadly for Hatate, it isn't him.
The midfielder will likely be leaving the club in the summer, but at least we still have a good option in McCowan. He is keen to prove himself even more, and supporters will be eager to see the best of him.
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