Celtic extend Colby Donovan’s contract through 2031

Celtic have extended academy graduate Colby Donovan’s contract until the summer of 2031, securing the 20-year-old right-back after he established himself in the first team amid Alistair Johnston’s injury absence. The five-year deal follows a period of increased responsibility for Donovan, who has been a regular option at right-back under manager Martin O’Neill. Reports say Johnston’s injury opened the position to Donovan, though the length of Johnston’s absence has not been established. O’Neill praised Donovan’s maturity, resilience and performances, calling the extension fantastic news for the club. He said the defender had stepped in when needed and shown his quality, and expressed confidence that he would continue to progress. Donovan said he was delighted to commit his future to Celtic and described his rise from the academy as a dream come true. He said he had believed since childhood that he could make it into the first team, while recognizing the competition and expectations at the club. He also spoke about the influence of established Celtic players he watched as a young academy prospect. Donovan said Kieran Tierney was the first person he told about the new contract,...