Celtic could be forced to use Kristoffer Ajer at centre back as Rosenborg.
According to The Scottish Sun, Celtic youngster Kristoffer Ajer is in line for a surprise start against Rosenborg in tonight’s Champions League clash.
The Bhoys coasted past Linfield in the last round of the Champions League qualifiers, and they are strong favourites to defeat Rosenborg over two legs and make it through to the next round.
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers
However, manager Brendan Rodgers faces selection problems ahead of the game, with Leigh Griffiths’ suspension and Moussa Dembele’s injury meaning midfielder Tom Rogic may be deployed in attack.
It’s at the back where Rodgers is really struggling though, as centre backs Dedryck Boyata and Erik Sviatchenko are both set to miss out, leaving Rodgers short of options to play at centre back.
Mikael Lustig can’t move inside as right back Cristian Gamboa is currently missing, whilst Emilio Izaguirre’s departure means that Kieran Tierney is unlikely to be used at centre back, unless Jonny Hayes or Calvin Miller play at left back.
Instead, The Scottish Sun report that Kristoffer Ajer is in line for a shock start at centre back, with the Norwegian leading the way to be Rodgers’ defensive saviour at Celtic Park this evening.
Celtic’s Kristoffer Ajer and Ryan Christie warm up
The 19-year-old, who joined Celtic from IK Start in 2016, has played just one game for the Bhoys and was loaned out to Kilmarnock in January, where he impressed in his 17 first-team games.
Formerly a midfielder, Ajer – who stands at 6ft 5in tall – has been converted to play in defence, and as he potentially gears up for a Champions League start alongside Jozo Simunovic, Ajer will be hoping to shine and ultimately earn more playing time in the future off the back of his display.
Would you like to see Ajer start against Rosenborg?
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