Neil Lennon has revealed Celtic are set to open talks with midfielder Ryan Christie over a contract extension.
Christie was one of Lennon’s stand-out performers last season as the Parkhead club lifted the Betfred Cup, reached the Europa League knockout rounds and won their ninth consecutive Premiership title.
The 25-year-old, who scored 20 goals for club and country in the 2019/20 campaign, signed a new three year deal back in 2018 after finally establishing himself in the first team.
However, his manager is keen to secure the services of the Scotland player beyond 2022 and confirmed talks will get underway soon.
“That’s an avenue we will look to pursue,” said Lennon. “He was terrific for us last year and I’ve love to give him an extension.
“It’s all quiet right now in terms of talks because there’s been so much going on, but we’ll be picking that up again soon.
“He scored 20 goals last year and I’m sure he would have added more if the season went on. That’s a fantastic return for a wide man.
“But it wasn’t just his goals. It was his all-round game that was so important for us. It’s like James Forrest and a good few others, they really weighed in and Ryan was right at the top as well.”
Meanwhile, Gavin Strachan, the son of former Celtic manager Gordon, is set to be confirmed as Lennon’s new first team coach today.
Strachan, who Darren Ferguson’s assistant at English League One club Peterborough United, will replace Damien Duff, who has left to become the Republic of Ireland assistant.
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