John Hughes has been talking up the career prospects of 17-ear old Celtic defender Leo Hjelde who is currently doing a great job for his Ross County side. A former Celtic defender himself, Yogi places the young Norwegian star way above his own level – in fact he compares him to perhaps one of the best defenders in World football – with the Ross County boss prepared to predict that Leo Hjelde could be the next Virgil van Dijk!
Hughes confirmed that Leeds Utd were interested in signing Hjelde from Celtic before the loan move to Dingwall was agreed and revealed that in order for that loan to happen the player had to sign an extension to his contract at Celtic.
Fellow Norwegian Kris Ajer developed from a youth prospect into a first team ready player for Celtic after a loan spell at Kilmarnock 5 years ago. Leo Hjelde, who can play as a central defender or full-back, may be about to follow a similar pathway. Big Yogi’s interview is below and you can also catch up on Leo Hjelde’s first professional goal…
Some very interesting comments from John Hughes, regarding Leo Hjelde including interest also from Leeds United
Been a beneficial loan for the 17-year old, playing regular first-team football at County. An exciting future ahead https://t.co/WQZUl38ABm
— Lewis 🍋 (@LewisLaird01) April 13, 2021
1️⃣ | Leo Hjelde notches his first goal in senior football at the Global Energy Stadium 🔥 pic.twitter.com/VmK068MxOR
— Ross County FC (@RossCounty) March 7, 2021
