The former Southampton boss has been linked with Manchester City and Newcastle in a season where he led Celtic into the last 16 of the Champions League and a second successive title.

And the absence of a long-term contract has added fuel to the fire.

But Lawwell said: "We have got him on a 12-month rolling contract and we have full protection, as does Gordon. It's better than a fixed term.

"We have had no indication that Gordon wants to leave. He says he's perfectly happy and we're happy with him.

"I have never had to ask Gordon about his future - I have never been in any doubt."

Lawwell praised Strachan for winning silverware while cutting the wage bill.

The chief executive revealed Celtic now have three categories of salaries - the top for star signings, a middle one for "scouted" players such as goalkeeper Artur Boruc and a lower one for homegrown players.

He said: "We had the sixth highest wage bill in the UK when Gordon started and were 25-30 percent ahead of Rangers.

"We had to bring our expenditure back and Gordon has been fantastic in his understanding. "