PETTA TO LAND NEW DEAL

The Celtic wideman, 27, has 18 months remaining on his contract but the Dutchman and his agent Peter Harrison are poised to hold talks with Bhoys coach Martin O'Neill about an extension before the turn of the year. 

"I was intending on not dealing with contracts until after Christmas but I will be speaking to Bobby's agent about his situation," said the Parkhead chief.

"It has been long overdue and although it will be an initial discussion, I'm hopeful we can reach agreement before long." Meanwhile, Bulgarian midfielder Stilian Petrov has admitted he would keen to extend his stay at Parkhead.

Petrov, who still has four years to run on his present deal, has invited the club to open talks with him over a new deal.

"A few months ago they asked me about a new contract.

"It was not important for me then - but if Celtic come back and want to extend my contract I would be really happy.

"Scottish football can give me what I need just now. If I stay for another four years it would be absolutely great for me."