After Ryan Christie’s injury at the start of the second half against Motherwell, Brendan Rodgers chose to make a tactical tweak that could hint towards the future.
Rodgers brought on Jack Hendry in place of Christie and slotted Kristoffer Ajer into a much more advanced midfield role.
It may have been due to the fact that Scott Brown was suspended and Callum McGregor absent. However, it may have indicated that Rodgers has a new role for Ajer in mind going forwards.
The 20-year-old Norwegian began his career as a midfielder before being pushed back to central defence after signing for Celtic.
Although he’s performed admirably for Celtic in his time so far, he’s always shown tendencies that point towards a career further up the park.
He is powerful in possession and likes to stride forward any chance he gets. Against Motherwell, he broke up the play well and started numerous Celtic attacks.
Despite appearing rattled by Motherwell’s controversial goal, Ajer composed himself and was a real plus point during the 4-1 win.
Celtic didn’t lose anything in attack with Ajer in midfield. He was able to join in the play and keep things moving.
In future, there’s perhaps an opportunity for him to get himself into the box and on the end of crosses.
However, against Motherwell his 40 minute spell in midfield saw him doing the dirty work in the engine room.
There could be a place for Ajer there in future, especially when Celtic’s flair players like Tom Rogic and Callum McGregor are back.
A big future in the game
Ajer’s potential has been well noted from the very beginning of his Celtic career.
The last player signed by Ronny Deila, Ajer had to wait a while before breaking through under Rodgers.
A loan spell at Kilmarnock did him the world of good, and now he’s an important player for the Bhoys.
It may have just been a tactical tweak, but Rodgers may seen Ajer as a midfielder for the future.
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