SIMON DONNELLY insists James Forrest still has a big part to play at Celtic.
The winger, 31, is in his 14th consecutive season at Parkhead after coming through the club’s academy as a youth player.
He will in all likelihood go down as Celtic’s most decorated ever player come the end of his contract in the summer of 2025.
However, his playing time has been severely limited so far this campaign due to the impressive form of Liel Abada, Daizen Maeda and Jota in the wide areas.
The competition for places under Ange Postecoglou is probably as fierce as it’s been at Celtic during Forrest’s time at the club.
And former Celt striker Donnelly believes the Scotland international will still get a decent amount of game time, insisting the club’s younger players should be soaking up his wisdom.
He said: “He still has a part to play. He has his work cut out trying to get in the team with the guys around him.
“He is no spring chicken anymore. But, he has still shown he has the quality. He wouldn't be here otherwise.
“If I am a young boy then I would be picking the brain of James and Harry Kewell.
“It is an invaluable experience watching how these guys go about their business and training with them.
“When I was coming through it was great to be around guys like Paul McStay and John Collins.
“I’m sure the young boys will be doing exactly the same with James.
“James has shown time and time again he is a big time player and he will feature at different times.”
Postecoglou has been linked with two Premier League clubs in recent weeks in the form of Brighton and Leicester City.
The Australian has batted away several questions about his future ambitions, stating that he is “living the dream” at Celtic Park.
Donnelly has told Hoops fans they have nothing to fret about.
He added: “I don't think Celtic fans should be worried. Ange has said himself that last season was just part one of a project.
“It was a very good part one and I think all Celtic fans are excited about where he can take this club.
“I think he is happy here. There will always be speculation here if you are doing well but I don’t think he wants to leave. I think he is fully focussed on the project here.
“The fans love him, they totally believe in him and are enjoying what they are seeing on the pitch.”
