Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton is shocked that the club have not addressed their lack of right-back options sooner.

Kristoffer Ajer has had to deputise at fullback in the Champions League qualifiers against FK Sarajevo but Sutton believes Neil Lennon’s side will be exposed when they play better opposition:

“Mikael Lustig is gone a long time now and that is the real issue. Kris Ajer has done a good job filling in but you get found out when you go to a higher level… the fact they’re going into [the Champions League qualifying] games without a recognised right-back is a huge issue.”

Celtic are close to signing defender Hatem Abd Elhamed from Hapoel Be’er Sheeva but it must be said he isn’t an out-and-out fullback. The 28-year-old spent most of last campaign as a centre-half.

The Hoops have tried to sign other fullbacks this summer such as Sheffield United’s George Baldock, Huddersfield Town’s Tommy Smith and Luton Town’s Jack Stacey but, so far, the club have not been able to secure a signing to strengthen the right side of defence.

Former Leicester fullback Danny Simpson is reportedly going to have a trial with the club next week, but even so, he would be a temporary solution. Would going into the season with him and Abd Elhamed be sufficient? We shall have to wait and see.