Paul McGowan is hoping to challenge for a first-team place next season despite any new arrivals at Parkhead.
Hoops forward will battle for his chance next term
Celtic striker Paul McGowan is hoping to challenge for a first-team place next season despite any new arrivals at Parkhead.
The 22-year-old forward refused to go out on loan this term and has since been offered a two-year contract extension with the Hoops.
He realises that the club will probably strengthen the squad this summer after a disappointing campaign, but is ready for the battle ahead.
"Now that I know I'm going to be here next season I just want to kick on," he said.
"I know there will be new players coming in but it was the same last season when I was training with the reserves.
"I was asked last year if I wanted to go on loan and I said no.
"I fought and fought and the manager ended up saying he couldn't say no to me anymore.
"So if that's the case I know I can do it, I just need to wait for my chance."
Lennon support
McGowan has previously completed loan spells at both Morton and Hamilton, but after breaking into the Bhoys first-team back in December, he appears to have the backing of interim boss Neil Lennon.
He told the club's
official website: "Neil Lennon told me I was well-loved at the club and he wants me to try and establish myself, so he has reassured me there is definitely a place for me here.
"The first team is a much higher tempo than the reserves.
"It's a lot harder but my aim was always to push into the first-team squad and now that I'm there I don't want to just be a squad player.
"I'm not the kind of player who likes to sit back and play the odd game, I want to try and push and push for my place."
