Brendan Rodgers could throw Ajer into derby cauldron

CELTIC boss Brendan Rodgers last night insisted he would have “no hesitation” in handing Kristoffer Ajer his Old Firm debut on Saturday.

The 19-year-old Norwegian was lavished with praise after helping his side to a clean sheet in the Hoops’ 3-0 win over Aberdeen.

“I thought he was brilliant,” said Rodgers, who played Ajer yesterday in place of Jozo Simunovic, who struggled in the 4-0 loss to Hearts.

“I said it in the changing-room to all the players. When I came in last year this was a boy, 18 years of age, 6ft 5ins who just needed some men’s football.

“We sent him to Kilmarnock and he was taught very well by both Lees (Clark and McCulloch) when he was there.

“I found when he came back in the summer he was a man. He played in the Champions League and did very well.

“I would have no hesitation playing him against Rangers because he has got the qualities.

“It doesn’t matter for me what age someone is, it’s just picking the best team each game to get the result.”

One player who won’t be involved in the near future is Aberdeen striker Steve May, due to the ankle injury he sustained against Rangers. “Stevie will be a few weeks away,” said Dons boss Derek McInnes.

“It was a bad challenge and we were concerned at the time.

“We got it scanned and we tried to work him through it.

“His training has been different and we have just been trying to get him ready to play.

“But his ankle has blown up after training this week and he needs work done.

“It’s maybe not surgery but he will need some treatment and rest.

“That area has been getting worse and worse from that challenge.”

Jonny Hayes, meanwhile, was in a happy mood after his first goal for Celtic, coming against his former club.

He said: “I’ve never doubted the move.

“I was coming to the best team in the country. They were streets ahead.

“It was always going to be difficult to adjust.

“I knew I wasn’t going to play straight sway, I was coming to be part of the squad first and foremost and then to work my way into the team.

“Scott Sinclair and James Forrest have been on fire with goals and assists so it’s been tough at times but any moment on the pitch is cherished.

“But they have a terrific manager and staff who give you confidence every day so when you do get a chance you’re ready to step up.”