ONLY FOCUS IS THE PRIZE
KRISTOFFER AJER believes Celtic’s hunt for more silverware has already buried the hurt of defeat in the Old Firm derby.
The Hoops defender insists having a Scottish Cup Final against Hearts on the horizon has their full focus after going down 2-0 to Rangers at Ibrox.
After an eighth league title success the curtain comes down on Celtic’s campaign with a home clash against the Jambos on Sunday before going for the treble Treble against them at Hampden a week on Saturday.
Ajer said: “The fact we’re even having a conversation about a third treble is amazing – but to actually win the treble Treble? That would be a truly remarkable achievement.
“We’ve all worked so hard over the course of the last three years and to even be in this situation is great BY GORDON PARKS for the whole squad. We’ve worked hard every day, every week, every month at training with the highest levels of professionalism, both on and off the pitch.
“We now go into Sunday’s game against Hearts aiming to win and then the Final, aiming to win again.”
The Norwegian, 21, lifted Celtic’s Young Player of the Year award after coming of age for the club during an impressive season where he has cemented his place at the heart of the champions’ backline.
Ajer’s progress was accelerated by a spell on loan at Kilmarnock.
He told Celtic’s website: “I’ve since played quite a lot over the last couple of seasons. To be playing for this club and even better, to be winning trophies, is such a fantastic feeling.” STEVE LOMAS believes Celtic are playing a dangerous game by leaving Neil Lennon dangling in managerial limbo.
The former St Johnstone boss insists his old Northern Ireland team-mate and close friend will already be on the radar of clubs down south thanks to his work as interim Hoops gaffer.
Sunday’s Old Firm defeat to Rangers is the only blot on Lennon’s record since replacing Brendan Rodgers back in February but opinion remains split on him being handed the Celtic job on a permanent basis.
But Lomas has warned the Parkhead board the delay in making a long-term appointment could come back to haunt them.
He said: “What people forget with Neil’s situation is clubs have been watching what’s going on and they will see he has done another job superbly.
“His stock is high and it has only risen further in the last few months both with the success Celtic have had and how well he has managed a situation that could have careered off the road. He will have options, I have no doubt about that.
“Maybe Neil would like a change of scene, he’ll certainly have options if he’s not offered the role long term and the Celtic board shouldn’t hang about if he’s the man for their future.
“If you ask him Neil will say he’s very fortunate to get another bite of the cherry at Celtic after leaving Hibs but