Michael Johnston made his debut for Celtic’s first-team in their Scottish Premiership victory over St Johnstone on Saturday.
Michael Johnston has told Celtic’s official website that it was immediately after making his debut for Brendan Rodgers’ side that he put pen to paper on a new three-year deal.
Johnston was a benefactor of the Hoops wrapping up the Scottish Premiership title early as Rodgers threw him and Anthony Ralston into the Bhoys side that hosted St Johnstone at Parkhead on Saturday, with both men making their first-team debuts in the contest.
But making his debut – during which, he set up Patrick Roberts’ opener early in the second-half – was not the only reason that Johnston and his family were left celebrating over the weekend, as the club confirmed on their official website shortly after the 4-1 win that the 18-year-old had agreed a new three-year deal with the Hoops.
And Johnston has suggested that the contract was finalised almost immediately after the emphatic win.
“It’s been a really special day and I’m absolutely delighted. I have played for this club for about 10 years and I have supported them my full life so to make my debut and then sign the contract today and commit my future here is unbelievable,” he told the club’s official website.
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers celebrates
“It was literally straight after the final whistle. Once I got changed, I went straight in and got the deal signed. I knew it was happening and it all came on the right day.
“I have committed my future here for a reason. This is where I want to be and hopefully I can get many more appearances under my belt.”
The news will have undoubtedly provided Celtic with a major boost as, while he has only made one appearance for the club, he went into the weekend seemingly closer to the exit than to committing his long-term future to the champions.
The Daily Mail reported on Thursday that Chelsea, Stoke City and Derby County were all keeping an eye on Johnston’s progress. However, the teenager has – surely rightly – decided that staying put is the best decision for his career.
And while it will be extremely difficult, he will be hoping that he goes on to experience many more days just as enjoyable as the day he made his first-team debut and signed a long-term contract with the Hoops.
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