Stephen Welsh has jumped to the defence of Kristoffer Ajer after recent criticism from former Hoops striker Frank McAvennie.
Recently Ajer came under fire from McAvennie for not doing enough to lead the side through games. But as quoted by the Daily Record, Welsh was quick to praise the Norwegian defender and the qualities he brings not only on the field but also off it within the changing room.
“Kris is an excellent player. People don’t realise how young he is, he’s only 22 and he’s becoming a leader in the side, a real focal point for the team now.
“He’s really easy to play with and it ties in with Jonjoe Kenny coming in at right-back. He has really steadied the ship, he’s an excellent defender.
“You’ve got Greg Taylor or Diego Laxalt over on the other side so we’ve got a good back four.”
The defence have come in for a lot of stick this season after some disappointing displays.
However, it would be fair to say that Ajer has actually been one of the better performers in this Celtic side, with the 22-year old even admitting it may have been his best season for the club.
This summer, it is likely we will see the talented central defender move on with his contract running down to just one year left this year.
Despite the stick he has faced, it is clear to see the quality he has as a player and this is backed up with Welsh’s comments with both players building a solid partnership in recent weeks.
