Celtic manager Neil Lennon has revealed his feeling of surprise at the omission of Kristoffer Ajer from the PFA Scottish Premiership Player of the Year nominations.
The 21-year-old has played 23 times for the Hoops this season and Lennon was impressed over the youngster claiming his spot in the back four.
Speaking in his press conference before Celtic’s game against Aberdeen, Lennon said: “I was a little surprised he wasn’t nominated because he’s had a brilliant season. He’s really made that position his own”.”
?? NL on Kristoffer Ajer: "I was a little surprised he wasn't nominated because he's had a brilliant season. He's really made that position his own."
— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) May 2, 2019
OPINION
Kristoffer Ajer has had a great season for Celtic, first under Brendan Rodgers and now under Neil Lennon. The Norwegian central defender did well to recover after suffering a hamstring injury twice this season which didn’t act as a road block to his career. The second half of the season has been his chance to shine and that is exactly what he has done. The youngster has looked like a veteran in defence for Celtic, especially in the old firm victory over Rangers in March when their fierce rivals were knocking at the door constantly in the second half. Ajer can feel aggrieved to not be involved in the nominations but he can only look at one of his rivals omissions to see that defenders aren’t preferred in these sort of awards. James Tavernier was not included in the nominees after scoring 11 and assisting 14 from right back, this only highlights the defensive minded player is not given the credit they deserve.