Kristoffer Ajer was back in Glasgow this week for the first time since his transfer to Brentford. Both himself and his Norway teammate Moi Elyounoussi, caught up with former Celtic teammates after the 3-3 draw at Hampden on Sunday evening. Of course Moi also played alongside Stuart Armstrong at Southampton, although their paths never crossed at Celtic.
But it was a Celtic reunion on the Hampden pitch after the final whistle as Ajer and Elyounoussi chatted away to Armstrong, Greg Taylor and Ryan Christie and Man of the Match Callum McGregor. Anthony Ralston who was an unused substitute, would have had a chat with the Bhoys too.
Afterwards Ajer spoke fondly about his time at Celtic and gave his views on Brendan Rodgers returning to the club in the summer. “It was special to come back to Scotland,” the former Celtic centre half said, as reported by Glasgow Times. “I loved my time in Scotland, so it was great to be back again.
“It’s great to see my old manager back at Celtic as well and to see them doing so well again. I am really happy for them because Celtic will always be special to me.
“Brendan was amazing for me, the way he helped me, the way he spoke to me. The one-to-one conversations he had with all of the players was amazing. When I signed for Celtic at 16-years-old I was a central midfielder. I think the intention was always to become a centre back eventually, but the manager spotted that very early,” Ajer added.
“I went out on loan to Kilmarnock and that was important for me to get some game time, but he always kept in touch. He’s a top, top manager. I am happy to see him back and doing well,” the Brentford defender added.
“Do I expect him to be successful the second time round? One hundred percent. I have no doubt he will be successful because he’s a fantastic manager.”
Asked if it was great to see his old Celtic pals, Ajer replied: “Yes, Ryan, and Greg was also one of my groomsmen at my wedding. It was special to see them, and I wish them all the best for the summer.
“I have fantastic memories. I was standing there listening to the national anthem and really enjoying the moment. I have best friends in Glasgow and playing against them on Sunday was special. I had some fantastic memories. I remember we beat Motherwell here (Scottish Cup Final,2018), that was amazing. It was my first big cup final. The 1-0 win over Rangers was also special (League Cup, 2019).
“It’s always special to see them and I wished them all the best,” Ajer said.
Matthew’s debut Celtic book titled ‘The Bould Bhoys – Glory to their name’ is published by Celtic Star Books and is available to order HERE or you can pick up a copy at any official Celtic store.
Aye, in Ajer’s mind his best ever season was the Covid collapse & loss of TIAR, shows how bright the donkey is. Terrible CB, 6ft5 and barely EVER won a header at either end. Always posted missin at corners at both ends and had the courage of a baby fawn. Do not miss him at all! Jeez, imagine him & Starfelt played the gether .. the goals we’d have shipped. Coudlnae lace CCV’s boots.