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Daily Record
Daily Record
Sport
Graeme Young

Charlie Nicholas reveals his Albian Ajeti Celtic fear as he delivers savage transfer verdict

Concerned Charlie Nicholas reckons Celtic could need as many as three new defenders and believes his former side will pay the price over a lack of defensive cover.

The 58-year-old also shared his fears over incoming Albian Ajeti and believes Neil Lennon "doesn't need" the West Ham striker.

Nicholas admits his concerns have been heightened in the wake of Sunday's tepid 1-1 draw with Kilmarnock, with Rangers' fast start adding to the pundit's strife.

And the former Celtic standout has called upon the Parkhead board to land a "big transfer" before the window closes in October to prove fresh impetus.

Speaking to the Express column, he said: "The champions were poor at Kilmarnock on Sunday but they can go into the transfer market.

"If Odsonne Edouard stays, he is the first-choice striker.

"That's why I don't get the big interest in Albian Ajeti and Steven Fletcher. Are they saying Leigh Griffiths' time is up? If not then surely they have more than enough cover for Edouard with Griffiths and Patryk Klimala.

"Celtic need another centre back and I'm not sure about the full-backs either.

"Jeremie Frimpong looks great going forward and Hatem Abd Elhamed can cover a number of positions but left-back's an issue.

(West Ham United FC via Getty Ima)

"Centre-backs Christopher Jullien and Kristoffer Ajer were really poor at Rugby Park and are vulnerable. There's no cover.

"There's no crisis. Celtic have only dropped two points but the squad needs strengthened.

"It might take a big transfer to get the right player in but it's vital. However, it seems Neil Lennon's scouting department is looking at the wrong positions.

"Lennon doesn't need a 33-year-old striker or a West Ham player who can't make up his mind if he wants to sign full-time or go for a loan deal.

"Also, the Celtic bench at Rugby Park didn't look strong. I know Tom Rogic is missing and there are issues with Griffiths, but I don't see a lot else there.

"Rangers are stronger up front and have bolstered their defence in their attempts to stop Celtic winning a 10th successive title.

"It all goes back to the Edouard issue. If an English Premier League club the Frenchman fancies joining comes in, Celtic could be in serious trouble."

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