James Forrest named Celtic legend after 100 goal milestone as winger's new contract doubters addressed

Ange Postecoglou hailed James Forrest as a Celtic legend after he racked up 100 goals for the club in a 6-1 rout of Hibs.

The Parkhead winger’s hat-trick, along with Giorgos Giakoumakis ’ double and a Daizen Maeda strike, moved the Hoops five points clear of Rangers at the top of the Premiership. It was Forrest’s first start of the campaign and Postecoglou was delighted with his display.

Having already amassed 20 trophies for the club, he's now hit a ton of goals. And his manager insists he’s up there with Celtic’s all-time greats. When asked if Forrest stands alongside Hoops legends, Postecoglou said: “Absolutely. Daizen didn’t score for two games and everyone was on his back. So for James to last as long as he has is testament to his character. He’s humble but still determined to be the best he can be here. It’s great for him because he’s joined an elite club today, 100 goals is fantastic.

“I keep telling players that’s the kind of thing that lasts beyond your career and you reflect on. I wasn’t even aware of it at half-time but I’m sure he was.

“And it wasn’t just James’ goals, his general performance was really good. I don’t know why anyone would doubt him but there was a reason we kept him around. It wasn’t sentimental reasons.

“When you’re putting a squad together it’s the sum of all parts that make it strong. You need players like James. He’s experienced, calm and has quality. He hasn’t had a lot of chances because players in his position have been doing well.

“But I had no doubt that at some stage we would call on him and he would deliver. Over the last few games he’s made impacts coming on so I could see he was ready to go.

“I’m delighted but not surprised. For us, it was really important today with the