Kristoffer Ajer: This is what Celtic boss Rodgers used to text me after matches
Celtic centre-back Kristoffer Ajer has revealed that Hoops boss Brendan Rodgers was aware of the player’s progress whilst he was on-loan at Kilmarnock last season, and informed him that he would be playing a big part for the Hoops this season.
The 19-year-old, who has been a defensive stand-out for the Bhoys since becoming a first-team regular in December, has hailed the impact that the Hoops boss has had on his career so far, which has culminated in a first call-up to the Norwegian national team.
“When I was on loan at Kilmarnock I often got feedback and went to our training centre to go through what I did in clips of matches,” Ajer said, as quoted by the Evening Times.
“The information I received was crucial for me and gave me the indication that when I returned to Celtic I could get some playing time.
“He used to text me after matches about what I did well and what needed to be improved. The feedback Brendan Rodgers gave me was invaluable.”
Ajer has started 18 matches in a row for the Hoops since replacing Jozo Simunovic in the Hoops’ defence after a 4-0 loss to Hearts in December.
He is set to be a key figure for the Hoops as they aim to complete a second successive domestic treble.
Football Insider verdict
The spell at Kilmarnock last season could well have shaped Ajer’s career, and Rodgers was smart enough to pick-up on how good the player could be whilst he was only 18-years-old, but perhaps even the Hoops boss is surprised at how well Ajer has fit in since becoming a first-team regular for the Bhoys. He is currently the best centre-back at the club, and has put some of his more experienced team-mates to shame with his performances. Celtic fans will be hoping that he stays in the East End of Glasgow for a few more years to come, as he looks to have a very bright future in the game.
In other Celtic news, the Hoops have lined-up three transfer deals for the summer
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