Celtic defender Kristoffer Ajer has been one of few to shine this season.
Next to Ismaila Soro and David Turnbull, Ajer’s performances have been genuinely solid all season long. Yes, he’s part of a defence that’s leaked goals from set-pieces, but his work-rate and leadership have grown through 20-21.
Today, against Aberdeen, Ajer was imperious. He found it so easy, that he often launched into long-distance runs with the ball. It’s something he’s done in spells this season, but today he thought he was Beckenbauer.
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Fine, yes: this Aberdeen side have struggled to score goals. However, Ajer was top-notch today, winning Man of the Match and keeping a clean sheet.
The Norwegian dispossessed Aberdeen on three occasions, was tidy with his passing and – staggeringly – didn’t have to make a tackle the whole game [WhoScored?]. His anticipation and reading of the game meant he didn’t need to do anything rash. That’s the sign of a complete centre-back.
With Ajer’s contract running out in 2022, Celtic will undoubtedly field bids for the centre-back. However, with the right manager in place, and the possibility of vice-captaincy, fans hope Ajer could be convinced to stay beyond then. Certainly, at his current rate of development, he could recoup the Bhoys a sizeable fee for his services. It’s also worth remembering that he’s just 22.
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Ajer was excellent today / (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Celtic supporters praise Ajer for imperious display
Celtic supporters praised Ajer for another excellent performance.
The only remotely consistent performer in our squad this season. Give him whatever he wants for a new contract.
— Zaccheroni Apologist (@NoDauntTote) February 27, 2021
Well its a win today. Jk first game and first win in charge. Still think a new manager is needed. keep ajer and build around him
— gavin smith (@gavinsmith1982) February 27, 2021
Sign a new contract please
— BurnsyBhoy 🏴🍀 (@BurnsyBhoy6788) February 27, 2021
What a player ajer such good potential
— [email protected] (@dek6788) February 27, 2021
Kristoffer ajer …… next season @CelticFC captain 💪 solid !!! 🍀HH
— James Mclean (@jiggymclean) February 27, 2021
Kristoffer Ajer is phenomenal.
— David Brannagan (@DavidBrannagan1) February 27, 2021
Kristoffer Ajer is another level.
— 🍀 (@GlasgowGandW) February 27, 2021
Kristoffer Ajer is my hero 🍀 @CelticFC
— Kailam 👑 (@OhKxng) February 27, 2021