Celtic defender Christopher Jullien is clearly looking forward to a big week of Hoops action, posting twice on Instagram about the upcoming challenges we face.
In the wake of Sunday’s win over Hearts, the French defender was quick to congratulate Vakoun Bayo for his excellent performance. He reckons the victory was the perfect way to prepare for upcoming tests against AIK and Rangers.
Earlier today, he would again post an image reflecting on the afternoon against Craig Levein’s side. Towering high above the Edinburgh outfit, the picture reflects his aerial dominance when given the opportunity to challenge for the ball.
For the second time in as many days, the caption also references a huge few days for Neil Lennon and his men.
It’s as big a double header for Jullien as anyone.
The player arrived with a huge price tag this summer and so far he’s not quite looked like the star centre-back some were expecting.
There’s understandable reasons for that of course.
It takes time to settle in a new league and a new country. Jullien has spent the vast majority of his career playing for French clubs.
Against Hearts there were again a few issues with his pace and positioning, especially when facing long balls over the top from the visitors.
However, there are signs he is improving too. More comfortable in possession, he is beginning to find his range as a ball playing defender.
If he can start to consistently rake cross-field balls forward to attacking players, our transition from defence to attack will be all the better.
There’s also no doubt about his aerial presence either, winning most of the balls he would contest for.
It seems likely now he’ll play away in Sweden and at Ibrox, which will be his two biggest tests so far of his short Celtic career.
These are matches we need players at their peak in. There will be no room for learning, especially in Govan.
However, if he can produce a strong performance in both it will go a long way towards proving himself to supporters.
Receive a digest of our best Celtic content each week direct to your mailbox
