NORWAY Head Coach Lars Lagerback believes Celtic defender Kristoffer Ajer can star on the international stage for the next 15 years.
But the veteran boss has urged the 19-year-old Hoops star to be less “high risk”.
Ajer has been handed his first senior call-up for the friendlies against Australia and Albania.
He has made 24 appearances for the champions this season as he has settled into his central defensive role.
Lagerback said: “I do not know Kristoffer personally, so I’ll be a little careful, but everyone I know has been very positive about his personality.
“He has a lot of self-esteem, confidence and is the type of character we need to be a successful team.
“That is the picture I am getting and I can’t wait to get to know him more.
“If he really wants to, he will become a very strong player for the national team. For someone of his age to be here is unusual in itself, so he needs to keep his feet on the ground and word hard.
“However, he has all the possibilities ahead of him. He can play for 10 or 15 years in the national team.”
While he has been impressed by Ajer’s mature performances, Lagerback reckons there is still room for improvement.
The 69-year-old added: “I think he still plays a little too high risk, albeit I’m aware he has a coach (Brendan Rodgers) who plays that way.
“Aside from that, he is physical, strong and that is a big advantage to work with.”
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