Kristoffer Ajer was delighted with how Celtic defended their lead against Aberdeen in last night’s (Wednesday) 1-0 win at Paradise.

David Turnbull’s impressive long-range strike put Celtic in front early in the game and helped his take all three points against the visitors in the Scottish Premiership encounter.

Celtic dominated much of the first half and kept the visitors under pressure with their attacking play, but Aberdeen managed to avoid conceding any more goals before the break.

Derek McInnes’ side looked to capitalise on Celtic’s narrow lead in the second half and the Hoops were kept busy in defence in the latter stages of the game as Aberdeen threw everything at grabbing an equaliser.

Ajer was awarded Man of the Match on his fifth anniversary at the club for his work in protecting Celtic’s lead. The Norwegian was pleased with how he and his team-mates defended against a late flurry from Aberdeen.

“We knew Aberdeen would make it extremely difficult,” said Ajer. “At the end of the game, it felt like there were 25 Aberdeen players in the box so we had to defend well. I felt we did that and I’m delighted with that.

“Aberdeen pressed us really well in the second half. They came out and showed great spirit for the full second half. We didn’t manage to play them out so we had to grind out the result.

'I think Welshy defended great, the full-backs defended well and the guys in front of us worked their socks off.'

Ajer also praised goalkeeper Scott Bain for his part in the build-up to the all-important goal.

“It’s important to look at Bainy’s pass for the goal as well,” said the 22-year-old. “It’s easy to look at Turnbull’s great strike and Callum driving with the ball but if Bainy doesn’t play that pass there wouldn’t have been a goal. With his left foot as well, to find Callum in midfield was incredible.”

Ajer delighted with how Celtic defended their lead against Aberdeen