Christie More

Ryan Christie looks forward to another three years at Paradise after penning a new deal with the Hoops this week.

- Joe Donnelly

BY his own admission, Ryan Christie has enjoyed a whirlwind spell at Celtic.

After replacing the injured Olivier Ntcham in the League Cup semi-final against Hearts just over two weeks ago, the half-time substitute changed the game with a goal, an assist and by winning a penalty.

Scott Sinclair duly converted the latter, and it seemed as though a flick had switched in the midfielder’s mind, as he was evidently keen to secure his spot in the Celtic starting XI.

“Since the start of the season, any time I’ve come off the bench I’ve tried my best to make an impact,” he told the View. “I’ve maybe played okay in those instances but not really had a proper impact. At Murrayfield, I came on and got the goal.

“The whole team’s second-half performance was brilliant, and we’re delighted to get into a final. Getting the goal allowed me to put my stamp on the game, and has had a snowball effect on my confidence in every game since then. It’s been brilliant to be part of it.”

The 23-year-old has now signed a new three-year deal at Paradise, which caps off a phenomenal fortnight for the player.

Brendan Rodgers has since reiterated his long-term plans for Christie, and has expressed delight in the player’s efforts and growth following loan spells at Inverness CT and Aberdeen over the past couple of seasons.

“It’s been amazing, I’ve had great run of games and I was delighted to keep myself in the squad,” said Christie. “Signing a new contract is a special way to top it off. When I first came in, the manager told me he thought there was a physical side of my game that was lacking.