Pressure Points

Kristoffer Ajer believes that the Celtic players thrive under the spotlight as they continue their quest for further silverware

- Tony Connelly

AS the business end of the season approaches, the pressure is intensifying for the champions as the prospect of more silverware looms, but Kristoffer Ajer pointed out that he and his team-mates are more than comfortable carrying the weight of expectation as things heats up.

With only eight games remaining in the league, and a 10-point lead at the top of the table, Celtic’s pursuit of an eighth consecutive league title is progressing well.

But the end of the season is far from the minds of the squad. If the experience Ajer has gained in his time at Celtic has taught him one thing, it’s that staying at the top requires a unique state of mind.

Celtic have already played 52 competitive games so far this season and, as the marathon campaign approaches the finish line, the Bhoys will have to dig deep to find their best form.

The mental and physical demands required to win silverware inevitably take their toll during a long and arduous season. Experiencing the euphoria of that success has only heightened Ajer’s commitment to endure the hardship necessary to attain success, and he admitted he wouldn’t have it any other way.

“When you play for Celtic, you expect to have big games all throughout the season, so there’s no point where you can allow yourself to lose focus,” he said. “It’s a good feeling going into this point of the season knowing we have a league title to defend and a Scottish Cup semi-final coming up.

“Having so much to play for all the time is part of life at Celtic. There are no easy games here because there is always a big target on our backs. Opposition teams are very motivated to beat the best in the league, and talent alone is not enough to stay at the top.