Celtic manager Neil Lennon has made it clear that the Hoops will be deciding when centre-back Kristoffer Ajer leaves the club. It follows remarks from the player’s agent suggesting that the defender has his sights set on a summer exit.

The 21-year-old currently has just over two years remaining on his current deal at Parkhead and Lennon feels they are very much in control of the situation:

“I’m aware of the comments. The club will decide when players go, not agents or players themselves. Kris has never given any indication he wants to leave. He’s been playing very well, been very consistent.”

“We have him tied down to a long-term contract so we’ll decide, not anyone else. There’s not been any interest in Kris and I think the agent has shot himself in the foot there.”

Whether Ajer will make it known to Lennon that he wants to leave, it remains to be seen, but it is always tricky when agents make such statements.

It could well be a bargaining tool in negotiations over a new contract, but it could also be something more serious than that.

Fans will be hoping Lennon’s man-management skills will come to fore once again. He managed to keep Olivier Ntcham last summer when the Frenchman had publicly stated that he was keen on leaving the Scottish champions. Whether Ajer will similarly fall into line, we shall see.