AJER: I’M IN NO RUSH TO LEAVE CELTIC
KRIS AJER insists he is focused on Celtic’s bid for 10 in a row and is in no rush to leave Parkhead despite summer interest from AC Milan.
The Italian giants’ technical director Paolo Maldini admitted the defender was on their radar during the extended window and the 22-year-old remains
in the spotlight with 18 months left on his contract.
Ajer switched agent this year after former representative Tore Pedersen had incurred Neil Lennon’s wrath by claiming the Norwegian would leave this summer.
Brendan Rodgers’ Leicester are long-term admirers but speaking on international duty with Norway, Ajer said: “I don’t want to comment too much on how the summer was.
“Clearly there was a lot of interest but I have huge respect for the club I’m at.
“I have a year-and-a-half left on my contract and the club have given me an incredible amount.
“I came to the club as an attacking midfielder and I’ve gone on to play 150 games – and play for a club that means so much to so many.
“I haven’t rushed to move on. This is a really important season for the club and I’m looking forward to it.”
Ajer al so offered assurances over his health, with a number of Celtic team-mates ruled out of Saturday’s Old Firm game amid coronavirus chaos.
Nir Bitton and Hatem Abd Elhamed are definitely out whi l e Odsonne Edouard is only due back from isolation in France the day before kick-off.
Ryan Christie also misses out as he isolates, having been in contact with Covid- positive Stuart Armstrong on international duty.
Celtic have called for talks with UEFA and clubs ahead of the next international break.
Ajer said: “There have been some cases with Celtic players. But all protocols and everything have been carried out in a brilliant way here with the Norway national team.
“We have had full control. Everyone has worn a face mask and follows the guidelines that have come from UEFA.”