Celtic full-back Colby Donovan has committed his long-term future to the Scottish champions by signing a new contract that will keep him at the club until 2031. Following the announcement, manager Martin O'Neill was full of praise for the 20-year-old talent, stating his firm belief that the defender is destined for a "very big future" in the sport.
Donovan has emerged as an essential option in O'Neill's squad, establishing himself as the preferred deputy on the flank while Alistair Johnston has been sidelined through injury. Having originally made his senior Celtic debut in August last year, Donovan has already been handed 15 starts in the current campaign, building steadily on the 27 appearances he registered throughout last season.
His impressive performances at club level also brought international recognition in September, when he earned his first senior call-up to the Scotland squad, though he did not make an appearance across their four Nations League games under new manager Sebastien Pocognoli. Speaking to club media, O'Neill lauded Donovan's "tremendous attitude" and application, explaining: "He has come in when we needed him, given everything for our cause. I know the love Colby has for the club and I know what signing this deal means to him and his family. I am sure that he will continue to progress and enjoy a very big future in the game, and I am so pleased that he sees his long-term future at Celtic."
Reflecting on his journey from the youth ranks into the first team, Donovan emphasized that his ambition remains as high as ever now that his future is secured. "I've loved every single minute," Donovan said. "But it doesn't stop now. I'm just going to keep kicking on. You've got to have that belief as a young player coming through here at Celtic. You see all the signings that they bring in. When I was a kid, I knew I could come through and do it."