Celtic defender Mikael Lustig is not quite the player he once was for the Scottish champions.

Over the years, the Sweden international has put in some great shifts for the club but fans are starting to lose their patience with the defender.

The 31-year-old plays predominantly as a right-back, although he can play at centre-back too.

But after eight years with Celtic, it seems like time to move on and upgrade in that department.

The January transfer window could be used to find a new long-term successor for Lustig at right-back.

Here are three potential suggestions to take the role on.

Craig Dawson

Craig Dawson wanted to move away from West Brom this summer. (Rich Linley – CameraSport via Getty Images)

Celtic were linked with Dawson in the summer transfer window.

The 28-year-old is unsettled at West Brom and therefore wants to play at a higher level.

Celtic could offer him the chance to compete for silverware and compete in Europe.

Dawson’s ability to play at right-back or at centre-back makes him a useful option for the Bhoys to consider, should they choose to upgrade on Lustig.

Matt Doherty

Matt Doherty is quickly establishing himself as a top Premier League defender. (Matthew Lewis/Getty Images)

Doherty is another option for the Scottish Premiership champions to consider.

The 26-year-old has enjoyed a rapid rise to stardom and is now a key component of Wolves’ Premier League side.

Doherty loves attacking, is strong at defending and he can use either foot.

The twice-capped Republic of Ireland international is comfortable at right-back, left-back or either wing-back position and this makes him a very handy player.

Callum Paterson

Callum Paterson would need to be converted back into a right-back. (Photo by Kevin Barnes – CameraSport via Getty Images)

Many Scottish people consider former Hearts defender Paterson to be the next national team right-back.

The 23-year-old is currently playing for Cardiff City in the Premier League, having helped them win promotion last season.

However, he is predominantly a central midfielder or a winger down in Wales.

Celtic could bring him in as a right-back, although his defending needs some work, and nurture him as the future of Celtic and Scotland.

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