James Forrest has confirmed that he expects to retire at Celtic and discusses his post-playing plans.
A one-club man, Forrest is the most decorated player in the club’s history, making 560 appearances.
Though he has evolved into more of a bit-part player in recent times, he has remained a prominent player at Celtic, scoring in 17 consecutive seasons.
Ahead of this weekend’s Glasgow Derby at Ibrox, Forrest was asked about his plans in the media.
Do you consider James Forrest as a Celtic legend?
Where does he rank in the list of Celtic legends? Comment below
James Forrest on retiring at Celtic
The 34-year-old said: “I definitely want to stay in the game to some capacity.
“It’s all I’ve ever done. It’s all I know. I love football. I love watching it as well. I think that’s a big one. I love being about it.
READ MORE: Callum McGregor says Celtic improvement in ‘every field’ will keep fans happy
“I think whatever happens at the end of this season, I’ll talk about next season and then maybe look into that more. But definitely, I want to stay in football somehow.
“I just love playing and I know I’m maybe getting to the latter stage of my career but I think I’m actually trying to maybe work harder and try and stay as long as possible and try and help the team. Just because I’ve loved doing it for years.
“I want to try and just give everything I’ve got until I’m done. I don’t just want to train with the team and just fizzle out.
“I want to try and make an impact. I want to try and play and help the team and help the players and the staff when I can. The last couple of games, I’ve managed to do that.”
On his playing career, Forrest said: “Until the club tells me to go, I’m going to try and stay here for as long as I can.
“But I think the most important thing, just the way the season’s gone, is the club and just trying to help the club as much as I can every game. If I play, if I don’t, in different ways, just trying to make an impact.
“We’ve still got a league and a cup we’re in as well. So, if I can play a part and help the team win something, that would be great. I can think about that at the end of the season, to be honest.
“I think, at this stage of my career, I don’t see myself playing for any other team, to be honest. I still feel good. I still like to play football.
“I like working hard and fighting to get a place in the team as well. I still enjoy that.
“So, as I said, I think the main thing now is just focus on every game and try to help the team and then maybe have a discussion with the club at the end of the season and see what happens then.”
You are Martin O’Neill, what is the first change you would make for the cup game against Rangers?
James Forrest and Celtic players with expiring contracts
Forrest refers to the possibility of his Celtic career ending, with his current contract due to expire at the end of this season.
Given that he has avoided injury and appeared in 32 games for the club this season, they would be foolish not to extend it, given his clear willingness.
Kasper Schmeichel’s contract is also up at the end of the campaign, as debate continues about his perceived downturn in form.
Both Kelechi Iheanacho and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain will also face decisions at the end of the season, having joined on short-term contracts which expire in May.
Receive a digest of our best Celtic content each week direct to your mailbox
