Strachan puts faith in Kennedy comeback
Celtic manager Gordon Strachan believes defender John Kennedy deserves his new deal with the club for his determination alone.
The 22-year-old has put pen to paper on a one-year extension to his current contract, which will keep him at Celtic Park until the summer of 2007.
But the Scotland international has endured an agonising 18 months since suffering cruciate knee ligament damage in an horrific tackle by Romania striker Vio Ganea.
Kennedy was badly injured in the challenge with the Wolves player during a friendly at Hampden Park in March 2004.
The youngster had appeared to be a rising star in the Celtic ranks before the injury – earning plaudits for his displays in the goalless draw in Barcelona in the UEFA Cup and an Old Firm derby win at Ibrox which followed.
But, instead of celebrating the capture of the Bank of Scotland Premier League title and the subsequent Champions League campaign last season, the defender has been forced to watch from the sidelines.
Kennedy also underwent three operations to rebuild his knee under the auspices of respected surgeon Richard Steadman in Colorado.
The international has returned to training this week although he is still waiting for the chance to impress Strachan and new Scotland boss Walter Smith.
But former Coventry and Southampton manager Strachan insists he has already seen enough character in the player to warrant the contract extension.
Strachan said: “There is no doubt John has had a pretty tough journey over the last year-and-a-half.
“However, he has shown great mental strength and determination to get where he is now.
“I am delighted he has agreed this new contract with the club.”
Celtic chief executive Peter Lawwell added: “The board is delighted to show the club’s commitment to John by extending his present deal.
“The way he has coped with the injury and his rehab has been a credit to himself and those around him.”
Kennedy believes some security over his future will allow him to focus on his game.
He said: “I am delighted to sign a new one-year extension with Celtic.
“I have obviously been out injured for some considerable time. However, I am honoured with the faith the club has placed in me.
“Although I have returned to first-team training this week, I know the road ahead is a long one.
“The new deal allows me to concentrate on getting back to full fitness.”
