Bhoys boosted by new Balde contract

Celtic tonight announced that Bobo Balde has signed a new four-and-a-half-year contract to stay at the club.

The 29-year-old looked set for a January transfer window move to the Premiership but as the club unveiled new loan signing Craig Bellamy last night, Martin O'Neill revealed the player had decided to stay until the summer at least.

That gave the club hope Balde would accept their own contract offer and that became reality tonight.

The free signing from Toulouse in 2001 insisted his heart - and not his head - had made the decision for him.

Middlesbrough and other clubs had offered him more money to leave but the cult-figure opted to stay at Parkhead.

Balde said: "I have had many things to consider over the last few weeks and I appreciate the pre-contract offers given to me by a number of clubs.

"My heart has been with Celtic for some time and that was a big factor in my decision.

"I want to help Celtic try to retain the championship and again experience big European matches we have done in the recent past."

O'Neill has now tied John Hartson and Balde to new contracts and competition for places is the best it has been for some time with the arrivals of Bellamy and Stephane Henchoz.

O'Neill enthused: "I am absolutely delighted that Bobo has  decided to stay at the football club.

"He has been an integral part of the team since he arrived from Toulouse three-and-a-half years ago and he has become a firm favourite with the fans.

"I think I echo everyone's sentiments when I say how pleased I am that he is staying with the club."

Having made 169 appearances and scored 13 goals for Celtic, Balde has been a key part of their success.

The Parkhead board have been criticised for not giving O'Neill more money but the fans will be happy Balde is secured, with Neil Lennon and Jackie McNamara set to follow.

The arrival of Bellamy possibly had a big influence on Balde's decision.

The Welsh international has been handed the number 47 shirt and he is already looking forward to when Rangers visit Parkhead in the Bank of Scotland Premier League on February 20.

Bellamy said: "I have been up for an Old Firm game before and that was incredible.

"It's a massive football club and my first home game could be the Old Firm derby which is incredible.

"This is a great football club and I am just proud to be attached to this club."