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Report: Celtic defender Hatem Abd Elhamed hopeful of being fit for Cluj clash

New Celtic signing Hatem Abd Elhamed is introduced to the fans during the UEFA Champions League Second Qualifying round 1st Leg match between Celti...
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The new Celtic signing had to go off injured against St Johnstone on Saturday.

New Celtic signing Hatem Abd Elhamed is introduced to the fans during the UEFA Champions League Second Qualifying round 1st Leg match between Celtic v Nomme Kalju FC at Celtic Park on July...

The Scottish Sun report that Hatem Abd Elhamed will travel with Celtic to Romania and is hopeful of featuring against CFR Cluj in Wednesday night’s UEFA Champions League qualifier.

Elhamed had to go off after picking up a knock on his debut against St Johnstone on Saturday, replaced by the inexperienced Anthony Ralston.

However, it looks like the right-back may recover in time, which will be a major boost to Neil Lennon’s selection options.

Kristoffer Ajer has had to be moved from central defence to the right flank in early matches this season and while he’s performed admirably, it’s not the ideal scenario heading into a difficult European away match.

Not only does it weaken the heart of the defence but the Hoops really need specialised full-backs in high stakes encounters. Cluj are no mugs and would look to exploit any hesitancy in Ajer’s wide game.

If Elhamed is indeed fit enough then Lennon will have Ajer, Christopher Jullien, Jozo Simunovic and Nir Bitton all available to compete for two central starting spots in a four-man defensive line.

All have been used in the position already this season so who the Hoops boss goes with will likely be a sign of which duo he sees as his strongest right now.

Kristoffer Ajer of Celtic celebrates scoring the opening goal of the game during the UEFA Champions League Second Qualifying round 1st Leg match between Celtic v Nomme Kalju FC at Celtic...

On paper it could be considered that the towering pairing of Ajer and Jullien is the way to go, but Simunovic has been in imperious form ever since Lennon arrived for his second spell. The Croatian has been one of Celtic’s most improved players since February, although is still capable of the odd rash moment.

Bitton too has barely put a foot wrong and his ball-playing ability is effective in retaining possession, which could be crucial away from home in Europe. He’s the defender most likely to keep his composure when finding an out ball from the back.

There will be varying opinions on what Lennon should go with and all eyes will be on his team sheet tomorrow.

Neil Lennon, manger of Celtic gestures from the touch line during the UEFA Champions League Second Qualifying round 1st Leg match between Celtic v Nomme Kalju FC at Celtic Park on July 24,...