NORWEGIAN GOOD

Ajer backed to reach top

STEVEN Gerrard is looking forward to facing some “high-quality opponents” in France after his Rangers players blew off the cobwebs with a behind-closed-doors win over Hamilton.

The Ibrox club yesterday announced that they will be taking on Ligue 1 opposition Lyon and Nice on July 16 and 18 respectively at the Groupama Stadium in Lyon.

In their first match since the crisis brought an early end to the season, the Ibrox side hosted Accies in a friendly game at the Rangers Training Centre.

New signing Calvin Bassey scored in a 2-1 win, with Alfredo Morelos netting a late penalty. Gerrard told Rangers TV: “It is pleasing that we have been able to secure highquality opponents which will familiarise us in advance of our Europa League tie.”

KRISTOFFER AJER has the all-round ability to reach the highest level of football according to teammate Christopher Jullien, but the defender hopes they can maintain their partnership at the heart of the Celtic defence for 10-in-a-row at least.

Ajer has been consistently linked with a move to AC Milan throughout the summer, with the Italian

giants keen admirers of the young Norwegian.

But Julien believes that Ajer could flourish in any company, he has his finger crossed that the 22-year-old will stay at Celtic Park for a good while yet.

“He is a great defender and, ultimately, I think that he can do everything,” Jullien said.

“He runs a lot, he defends, he can take the ball into the midfield and play. He has so many qualities and, in the time since I have arrived at the club, I have seen him progress.

“Just to have him on the same side as me is great and I want it more.”