Rodgers Discusses Celtic’s Contract Ambitions for Johnston and Taylor

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has indicated the club’s desire to secure a new contract for right-back Alistair Johnston. Johnston, who joined Celtic from CF Montreal in December 2022 on a five-year agreement, has performed impressively under both the current manager, Rodgers, and former manager Ange Postecoglou. Although recent reports suggested the Canadian player was nearing an agreement for an increased salary and a contract extension beyond 2027, Rodgers responded to inquiries about these claims by stating there was “nothing I can add.” Rodgers further commented, “He’s clearly a player we would want to tie down. He’s a fantastic guy to work with on and off the pitch, so hopefully in the future that can be the case.” In addition, Rodgers addressed questions regarding the future of left-back Greg Taylor, whose current contract at Parkhead is set to conclude within the year. Back in September, Rodgers had previously emphasized that a new agreement for the Scotland international defender was a “real priority.” While the Northern Irishman continues to express his wish to retain Taylor at the club, he indicated that no substantial progress has been made in discussions. Rodgers stated, “Nothing as of yet,” adding, “You see his importance to our game the other night [against RB Leipzig]. “He’s clearly someone I see as a big part of what we’re looking to continue here and I hope over the coming months we can do that. There does come a point where both sides have to understand what we’re thinking. If it’s not going to happen we can then plan and prepare. “I hope it doesn’t get to that because I love working with Greg Taylor. I can’t tell you how influential he is off the pitch, and how good he’s been on the pitch.”