Celtic boss delivers one word verdict on Ajer’s performance in Sarajevo

By John Reid

July 10, 2019

Celtic boss Neil Lennon has heaped praise on Kristoffer Ajer following the defender’s performance in the 3-1 Champions League qualifying win over Sarajevo.

The Hoops centre-back played in the unfamiliar role of right-back for the game, and Lennon was delighted with Ajer’s performance, claiming it was ‘outstanding’.

“He was outstanding” Lennon said, in an interview on Celtic’s YouTube channel.

“Absolutely brilliant”

“He’s been absolutely brilliant for me, and he was brilliant again tonight. His attitude, his quality of play, he’s just an outstanding player at the minute.”

Ajer’s performance was all the more impressive when you consider the fact that he has rarely played as a right-back for the Hoops.

Since getting into the Celtic side he has primarily played as a centre-back. Indeed, under Neil Lennon he has only played as a centre-back.

(Photo by Mark Runnacles/Getty Images)

Manager has plenty of confidence in player

It shows how much confidence the Hoops boss has in the player that he trusted him to play in an unfamiliar role in such an important game.

After a shaky start he didn’t let anyone down, turning in a more than respectable performance.

(Photo by Alan Rennie/Action Plus via Getty Images)

Naturally he would rather be in the centre of defence. You would imagine that as soon as a right-back is signed he will return to that position.

For now though, Ajer may have to be right-back. Judging by Lennon’s comments, he has no worries about playing him in that position.