Celtic manager Neil Lennon has explained why they have opted against handing Danny Simpson a trial.

The former Leicester City player, and Premier League winner, was expected to train with the Hoops this week. However, the impending arrival of Hapoel Be’er Sheva defender Hatem Abd Elhamed has ended the club’s interest in the 32-year-old:

“On Danny, we were down the line with Hatem and one or two other options so we just felt it would be futile to bring Danny in if he sees us bringing in other players in his specialised position.”

Lennon does mention other “options” suggesting they are also moving towards signing another right-back, as well as Abd Elhamed.

Celtic certainly do need to strengthen in that area of the pitch. Anthony Ralston will be the only player in the club’s squad for the Champions League qualifier against Nomme Kalju who specialises in that role.

It’s likely that Kristoffer Ajer will once again deputise at fullback when they face the Estonian side at Celtic Park tomorrow.

Abd Elhamed should then be available for the next round if the Scottish champions make it through, with either Maccabi Tel-Aviv or CFR Cluj lying in wait.