Celtic: Kris Commons 'no nearer' to new contract

Kris Commons twice hit the crossbar in a man-of-the-match performance against Kilmarnock

Kris Commons is no nearer agreeing a new contract with Celtic, according to the midfielder's agent.

The 31-year-old former Scotland cap was man-of-match as Celtic defeated Kilmarnock 2-0 on Monday.

But Martin Reilly, who wants a two-year deal for his client, told BBC Scotland: "Kris pledged his future to Celtic by retiring from international football to prolong his club career.

"We feel that should be rewarded. It's not about vast sums of money."

Celtic have declined to comment on the future of the player who did not join his team-mates on a mid-season trip to Gran Canaria on Monday because of the death of an uncle.

It is understood that Commons is has been offered a 12-month contract and Reilly described that length of deal as unacceptable.

Kris Commons was missing as Celtic's squad headed for a break in Gran Canaria

The 31-year-old midfielder, who is out of contract in the summer, can speak to other clubs now that the January transfer window has opened.

Speaking after the match against Kilmarnock, Commons said: "I have to keep working hard and then see what happens.

"I have got rent to pay, so I need to get some money in. I am working hard to get a contract."

Commons, who netted 32 goals last season on his way to collecting the player of the year award, featured in Celtic's starting line-up for the first time since 22 November.

The player linked with former Celtic manager Neil Lennon at Bolton Wanderers twice hit the crossbar against Kilmarnock and forced goalkeeper Craig Samson into a string of saves.

Celtic manager Ronny Deila was full of praise for the player's performance against Kilmarnock but evasive when asked about contract negotiations.

"It will be a lot easier for him now," Deila joked. "We will see what happens.

"We are working on it all the time and talks go on.

"He worked very hard in the first half; in the second half as well, but we dropped a little in our intensity.

"However, in the first half, Kris was involved in everything and he was very good defensively as well."