Pat Nevin has backed Celtic’s Kristoffer Ajer to be a top level player and “cruise in the Scottish Premier League” after watching the defender in the old firm derby.
The former Chelsea player was providing commentary for the old firm derby on BBC 5 Live on Saturday, and couldn’t praise the defender enough.
Nevin compared the 19-year-old to Manchester City’s John Stones and emphatically dubbed him “the future.”
"He's going to a top, top level player – I hope he stays here for a long time"
Born in 1998 – is #Celtic's Kristoffer Ajer going to be the real deal?@PatNevin thinks so
? https://t.co/gQyMz46SHD #CELRAN pic.twitter.com/GF7lqEzjLK
— BBC 5 Live Sport (@5liveSport) December 30, 2017
Ajer helped Celtic keep a clean sheet against Rangers, as the sides couldn’t be separated on Saturday, settling for a 0-0 draw.
The 19-year-old played the whole game against the Gers, and has been regular in Brendan Rodgers’ side as of late.
Nevin went on to add that Ajer was “going to be a top level player” and that he hopes he stays at the Hoops for “a long time.”
OPINION
It was hard to tell that the defender was only 19 based off his performance against Rangers, as he was calm about any danger that came his way. The defender looked assured on the ball, and looked just as accomplishment of his higher profile teammates. Nevin has made an interesting comparison by stating the defender looks like a young John Stones, especially when you consider Stones is only 23 himself. The Manchester City defender was praised for his performances this season, ahead of getting injured, which helped his side go unbeaten in the league. If Ajer can develop into a player such as Stone, then Celtic need to ensure he fulfills his potential with them as he will be an asset to any defence.