Donovan backed for big future on signing new Celtic deal

What the report says

Celtic full-back Colby Donovan has signed a new contract that runs until 2031, with manager Martin O'Neill saying the 20-year-old is capable of a “very big future” in the game. The extension was announced by the Scottish champions, who have used Donovan regularly this season after his promotion into the first team.

According to BBC Sport, Donovan has made 15 starts this campaign and first appeared for Celtic in August last year. He has also been used as O'Neill’s preferred replacement for injured right-back Alistair Johnston. Last season, Donovan made 27 appearances in total, underlining his growing role in the squad.

O'Neill praised the defender’s attitude and said he had stepped in when Celtic needed him most. He added that he understood what the deal meant to Donovan and his family, and expressed confidence that the player would keep developing at the club. Donovan has also been around the Scotland senior setup, earning a first call-up in September, although he did not feature in the four Nations League matches.

The contract decision matters because it ties one of Celtic’s emerging homegrown players to the club for the long term at a time when he is beginning to establish himself in senior football. Donovan said he has enjoyed his time so far but is focused on continuing to improve.