 McGeady has made 60 appearences for Celtic since 2004 |
Celtic winger Aiden McGeady has agreed a new four-and-a-half-year contract extension at Parkhead. The 20-year-old Republic of Ireland international had more than a year remaining on his pre-existing deal.
However, following Shaun Maloney's recent transfer to Aston Villa, Celtic were keen to extend McGeady's stay.
Speaking to the official club website, McGeady said: "I'm delighted to agree this new contract with Celtic and commit my future to the club."
McGeady insisted that his decision to extend his Celtic stay had nothing to do with the departure of former jersey rival Shaun Maloney.
 | It's a strong commitment from both sides Celtic manager Gordon Strachan |
"To be honest, it didn't really play a big part because players make their own decisions," he said.
"Shaun maybe thought that his time at Celtic had turned him into a better player and it was the right time to go to England.
"I wish him all the best but even if Shaun had stayed I would have still been here fighting for a place in the team."
Celtic manager Gordon Strachan was delighted to have secured the Republic of Ireland international on a long term deal.
"It's a strong commitment from both sides," he said.
"Aiden is showing trust in us to look after him and we trust him because we believe he has got a lot to offer.
"There is still a lot of work to be done with him.
"That will be a great challenge for Aiden, myself and the rest of the coaching staff but he is going to be a great asset."
McGeady has also withdrawn from the Republic of Ireland squad ahead of next Wednesday's Euro 2008 qualifier with San Marino at the Serravalle Stadium because of a knee injury.
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Interview: Celtic winger Aiden McGeady