Brendan Rodgers' Celtic return was key to defender's new contract decision

Stephen Welsh says Brendan Rodgers returning to Celtic was a key factor in his decision to sign a new four-year deal.

Welsh ended a summer of speculation linking him with a move away from the Scottish champions by signing a bumper new deal that keeps him at Parkhead until summer of 2027.

The 23-year-old from Coatbridge was virtually a spectator last season under Ange Postecoglou, making only six appearances – though injury had a lot to do with that, too.

That may have reared its head again, with the defender spotted on crutches and wearing a moon boot just hours after his contract news broke yesterday.

However, Welsh told the club’s website: “Signing a new contract for the club that I’ve been brought up on and have supported my whole life was, for me, an easy decision to stay at the club for another four years, at least, hopefully.

“It’s time for me to kick on now and hopefully I can have a few good seasons.

“I want to keep improving and continue to play as many games as I can, especially with the manager in now.

“He has been massive for me since he has come in – he’s one of the main reasons that I want to be at the club.

“I’m just looking forward to starting the season properly and going for it.”

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