Celtic duo extend contracts

Chris Sutton and Alan Thompson have signed new two-year contract extensions with Celtic.

The English duo, who both joined the Glasgow club in 2000, have been key members of Martin O’Neill’s successful side over the last four years.

Striker Sutton and midfielder Thompson, who made his England debut against Sweden last week, have pledged their immediate futures to the Hoops until 2007.

Sutton, who joined the club for £6m (€9m) from Chelsea, insisted the decision to stay on in Glasgow was a simple one after several years of success.

He told the club’s official website, www.celticfc.net: “The decision to extend my contract with Celtic was an easy one.

“We have had some great moments in recent years both at home and in Europe and I’m now looking forward to hopefully being part of a Celtic team which can enjoy more success in the future.”

Thompson received international recognition for his exploits with the Bank of Scotland Premier League club last week with his first cap for England in the friendly in Sweden.

The former Aston Villa and Bolton midfielder believes his new deal is the icing on the cake ahead of the UEFA Cup quarter-final, first leg against Villarreal tomorrow.

Thompson said: “I am delighted to commit myself to Celtic Football Club for the next three years.

“Celtic is one of the world’s biggest clubs and this agreement sets the seal on an amazing month for me, what with overcoming Barcelona, winning my first cap for England and now signing this extension.

“We are now gearing up for two massive games against Villarreal and this is the best possible preparation.”