Hazard signs new deal at Celtic and says his best is yet to come

CONOR Hazard told Celtic fans they have yet to see the best of him after signing a new two-year deal which takes him up until at least the summer of 2023.

The 22-year-old goalkeeper – who had two loan spells with Dundee – made his first-team debut in the 3-2 Europa League win over Lille earlier this season.

Hazard then picked up his first medal when he saved two of Hearts’ spot-kicks in the penalty shoot-out in the delayed 2020 Scottish Cup Final at Hampden Park in December, following a 3-3 draw.

After seven appearances, the Northern Ireland international has lost his place in the side this year with former Dundee star Scott Bain taking over and Greece goalkeeper Vasilis Barkas also providing competition.

Hazard said his ambition is to “get more regular football” and added: “You haven’t seen the best of me yet. There is still a lot more to come.

“I know I am only 22 years of age and I have a lot to learn but I know I have the potential to get there.

“Just playing those seven games has given me a big boost to my confidence and I am going into training every day knowing that there is that opportunity to try to get back in the team, perform and get a few wins.

“Obviously Woodsy (goalkeeping coach Stevie Woods) is working us hard so it should be a big two years to come.

“I was over the moon even just to make my debut.

“I got five games in the league and the Europa League and the cup final was unbelievable, something I will never forget.”

Conor Hazard had two spells on loan at Dundee.