‘MY AIM IS TO CONTINUE TO DEVELOP,’ ADMITS AJER

CELTIC teenager Kristoffer Ajer admitted he has lots to learn in his new role as a central defender.

The Norwegian Under-21 international, who has been converted from a midfield role, played the last four games of 2017 alongside Dedryck Boyata in the heart of the Hoops rearguard.

Ajer, 19, is enjoying his best run in the first team since joining the club from FK Start 18 months ago after spending last season on loan at Kilmarnock.

He said: “It was a positive December. I played a lot of games and the manager places good faith in all of his players, so when he puts you in, you know your job.

“When you get your chance for Celtic you have to grab it. It’s one of the biggest clubs to play for, so I’m really happy to be here now.

“I’m developing really well here. First, in the the loan move to Killie, when I got a bit of game-time, then I came back feeling stronger and more ready to play.

“I was a midfielder when I signed for Celtic, but I always knew the position I could go furthest in was centre-half.

“Since day one at Celtic. the gaffer has always said I should play centre-half and I’ve really agreed with him.

“The manager has been brilliant, as have the rest of the staff. They’ve helped me a lot.

“It’s a new position for me. I know I’m still young and a lot to learn. When you play for Celtic you have to take it one game at a time and perform at every opportunity.

“I’m just looking forward to the next game. We want to start well in the second half of the season.

“I don’t know what the starting XI will be on Saturday, but I’ll always do my best in training.

“I’m 19 years old and I can develop so much more.”

NEW CQN PODCAST OUT NOW FEATURING TOMMY SHERIDAN

A Celtic State of Mind presents its 30th instalment of insightful discussion around the culture of Celtic Football Club, the city of Glasgow, and fans of the reigning treble-winning Scottish champions.

Kevin Graham is joined by Scotty Alcroft to interview Scottish pro-independence politician, Tommy Sheridan, at The Penalty Spot in Glasgow.

The interview took place as part of A Celtic State of Mind’s first live event – Five-a-sides at The Penalty Spot – and, as such, there is some background noise (including mobile interference – apologies) from the audience.

The other voice you may hear throughout this episode is that of former Celtic striker, Frank McGarvey, who is a friend of Tommy’s, and who was also interviewed separately that day for a future show.

You are sure to enjoy Tommy’s eclectic input, as he discusses everything from Catalan independence to Coolio, with a constant undercurrent of that thing called Celtic.

Order Jim Craig’s new Lisbon Lion Diary – Right Back to 67 from CQNBookstore.co.uk and you will receive a signed copy from the man himself plus a FREE copy of That Season in Paradise – Ten Months of Celtic Heaven signed by fellow Lisbon Lion Bertie Auld! Simply order Jim Craig – Right Back to 67 and the second book will be sent automatically. Stocks are running very low so hurry!