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Neil Lennon reveals two-man transfer plan as Celtic make Champions League headway
CELTIC manager Neil Lennon has confirmed he is after two more defensive signings this summer.
Celtic vs Sarajevo: Lennon reacts to 3-1 Champions League win
The Hoops made a strong start to their pursuit of Champions League football next season by defeating FK Sarajevo 3-1 on Tuesday evening in Bosnia & Herzegovina.
Nir Bitton, conventionally a holding midfielder, and Kristoffer Ajer, a centre-back by trade, had to play out of position during the win because new signing Christopher Jullien was not ready for the qualifier.
Lennon has also welcomed Boli Bolingoli at left-back this summer but wants more backline reinforcements.
“Nir can play at the back, but it’s not ideal,” Lennon said. “Christopher isn’t up to speed yet and we are still looking to strengthen there, too.
Right-back is a key area to strengthen
“Ideally, I’d like Bitton to play in midfield, but he showed his qualities in defence too.
“I’m looking for a big season from Nir. No matter what position he plays. He’s had a very good pre-season after a bad injury.
“It was a concerted period out for him of 10 months to a year. He played a few games for me last season, but he still had a little problem with his knee.
“Nir went away with Israel and has come back looking really good. We have now thrown down the challenge to him to step up and make an impact on the team. He has the game to do it.
Celtic: Neil Lennon admits he wants more ‘quality’ in squad
“Nir is 27 and he’s a good athlete. There is more to come from him. But I have been very pleased with him so far.”
Following the exit of Mikael Lustig earlier in the window, Lennon is also hoping to recruit a right-back.
Celtic are without a recognised right-back ahead of the 2019/20 campaign.
“Right-back is a key area to strengthen,” confirmed Lennon. “Kristoffer was outstanding, but we are looking to bring quality in.
“It’s not an easy process, but we are working away in the background.”