CONOR’S SAVED VERY BEST

CONOR HAZARD’S rollercoaster season hit a high point last night when he signed a new two-year deal with Celtic. The 22-year-old keeper immediately targeted more first-team games after being involved in seven matches this term, including the Scottish Cup Final that secured the quadruple Treble. Hazard DEAL DONE Conor Hazard was pitched in at the deep end by former boss Neil Lennon when he took over as No.1 as the title defence started to hit the buffers.

The Northern Irishman emerged from Hampden as a hero by saving two Hearts penalties in the shoot-out, before being dropped back onto the sidelines later that month to make way for Vasilis Barkas, who has since lost his place again to current first choice Scott Bain.

Hazard, who has one senior cap to his name, has secured his own long-term future at Parkhead after signing up until at least 2023 and plans to make the most of it.

He told Celtic TV: “I’m over the moon. It’s been a long

process but I’m delighted to get it done in the end.

“Even just making my debut and getting five games in the league, as well playing in the Europa League and the cup final, was unbelievable and something I’ll never forget.

“Playing seven games has given me a great boost to my confidence and going into training every day knowing there’s that opportunity to get back in the team and perform.

“My ambition is just to get more regular first-team football. Woodsy (goalkeeper coach Steve Woods) works me hard every day and it’s a big two years to come.

“You haven’t seen the best of me yet. I’m only 22 and have a lot to learn but I have the potential to get there.”