Celtic fans have been lauding Kristoffer Ajer’s display at the Mestalla against Valencia.
Despite playing the second half with 10 men, the Hoops defended heroically to come away with their pride well intact. A 3-0 aggregate loss meant that they lost out just 1-0 on the night to the La Liga giants.
Much of that was down to the performance of Ajer. The Norwegian youngster dealt with plenty of individual battles against the likes of Goncalo Guedes and Ruben Sobrino. His display was full of hard work, and the defender was on the deck at full-time – showing how much graft he had put in.
And supporters were quick to sing the praises of the defender after the game. Giving their post-match reaction on Twitter, fans were full of appreciation for Ajer.
https://twitter.com/StMiley/status/1098664880792657923
https://twitter.com/Con_Shaunnery/status/1098667160141004800
https://twitter.com/sharko67/status/1098670208443658240
https://twitter.com/diwalshio/status/1098669374297251851
Difficult to pick a partnership after last night
Ajer was sensational last night. But, he certainly wasn’t the only one at the back either. Both Dedryck Boyata and Jozo Simunovic put in terrific defensive displays and made some heroic blocks to keep Celtic in the tie.
It’s difficult to pick two standouts and select them for Sunday based on tonight. All three men were simply outstanding against the likes of Sobrino and latterly Kevin Gameiro.
Playing with 10 men, Celtic seriously needed their backline to step up. After Jeremy Toljan was sent off, all three of the Hoops defenders had to be composed and confident in their work. It’s fair to say that all three of them were.
This was Ajer’s 31st appearance of the season. Whilst he could’ve notched an opener when he glanced Ryan Christie’s free-kick wide, he is becoming such a promising talent in the Celtic squad.
Fortunately, the Norwegian signed a new contract at Parkhead back in May. Ajer is now tied to the club until the summer of 2022. Considering his growth is starting to accelerate nicely, this is sensational news for the Hoops.
Ajer made a big step in his progression in Spain. He defended the club last night with determination and aggression, and fans absolutely loved it.
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