LUKE McCOWAN got Celtic off to the best possible start in their quest for a fifth successive title when he netted the only goal of the game of the Premiership kick-off against St Mirren at Parkhead on August 3.
The energetic midfielder also scored against the Paisley club when he whipped in the fourth strike in the 6-2 Scottish Cup semi-final extra-time win at Hampden last weekend.
However, it would be fair to say things haven’t gone quite according to plan in the matches in the intervening months.
The champions have lost EIGHT league games to leave them three points adrift of leaders Hearts with five matches to go.
THE GOAL ROUTINE…Luke McCowan celebrates his winner against St Mirren in the opening league game of the season in early August.
The Hoops have the opportunity to wipe out that deficit this evening in their home encounter against Falkirk while Derek McInnes’ side have to wait until tomorrow afternoon to take on Hibs in the Edinburgh derby at Easter Road.
McCowan, a £1million recruit from Dundee on August deadline day 2024, has just signed a contract extension which will keep him at Celtic until the summer of 2028 with the club having an option to extend for a further year.
The 28-year-old middle-of-the-park performer said: “I’m just so happy that we got the deal over the line. Now I’m able to help the boys for the coming years and be a part of this amazing squad.
“I think I’ve become a lot more mature. It’s just been great to learn from these guys who have been around this place for so long.
“To be a part of the team through winning and losing has been a massive part because nobody likes to lose, but when you do you sometimes become closer as a team.
“We’ve been able to do that, but the highs have been absolutely amazing and, hopefully, there’s more to come.”
HAMPDEN HOORAYS…Luke McCowan is congratulated by James Forrest and Benjamin Nygren after netting Celtic’s fourth goal during the extra-time burst against St Mirren.
Asked about his ambitions for the forthcoming seasons, McCowan, speaking to Celtic TV, added: “Just winning as many games and trophies as we can, put on good performances for the fans.
“For myself to contribute to that with goals and assists and try to grow as a player even more, learn more of the game.
“I’m really looking forward to the coming years and, hopefully, it’s all about progression with each year, as each year needs to get better and better.”
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