Kristoffer Ajer has admitted that it has been difficult for him to break into Celtic’s starting line-up, with the defender insisting that he is still on a learning curve.
The Norwegian, who joined Celtic from IK Start in 2016, managed just one senior competitive appearance for the Scottish giants last season and was sent out on loan to Kilmarnock for the second half of the 2016/17 campaign.
However, Ajer returned to Celtic at the start of this season and has thus far managed to make 11 appearances in all competitions in the present campaign.
The centre-back, who has completed all 90 minutes in each of Celtic’s last three Scottish Premiership matches, revealed that he learnt a lot from the other defenders at Paradise as he conceded that it has not been easy for him to get the chance to break into the Bhoys’ starting eleven, especially with the club doing so well domestically.
“It has been difficult, but we are a top, top squad”, Ajer told Celtic TV, when asked how difficult it has been for him to get the chance to play.
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“We work hard so much and push each other every day.
“I have learnt so much from the centre-halves in the one-and-a-half-year that I’ve been at the club.
“It’s unbelievable how much I’m learning in training as well.
“I’m just trying to learn as much as possible.”
Ajer, who went on to add that he feels confident now, stated that he is fully aware how Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers wants him to play.
“I feel really confident”, he continued.
“I know how the gaffer wants us to play and that gives me the confidence to do what I do.
“It feels really good to get the chance to play.
“I just have to perform in every single game.
“I know a lot of centre-halves would want to play in and we are working hard every day.
“So, it’s good that I’m getting my chances.”
Ajer, whose present contract with Celtic runs until 2020, could be involved in the high-voltage clash against Rangers on Saturday.
