Stephen Welsh has leapt to the defence of centre-back partner Kris Ajer, insisting the big Norwegian is a towering presence in the Parkhead dressing room.
Ajer came under fire from former Hoops star Frank McAvennie for not doing more to lead the team and guide Welsh through games.
But the 21-year-old reckons Macca is wide of the mark – as his team-mate is a rock at the back.
Welsh said: “Kris is an excellent player. People don’t realise how young he is, he’s only 22 and he’s becoming a leader in the side, a real focal point for the team now.
“He’s really easy to play with and it ties in with Jonjoe Kenny coming in at right-back. He has really steadied the ship, he’s an excellent defender.
“You’ve got Greg Taylor or Diego Laxalt over on the other side so we’ve got a good back four.”
The Hoops defence has been criticised all season but has been shored up in recent weeks with just one goal shipped in five games.
Welsh is looking to put up the shutters against Rangers at Ibrox tomorrow and said: “It’s been great for confidence. It’s down to concentration, we did well against Livingston’s direct play and counter attacks – the Falkirk game was similar.
“We didn’t concede a shot and we will be looking to keep Rangers out. It should be a good game.”
Hoops fan Welsh was a boss in Old Firm games at youth level but has yet to savour a derby win with the senior side.
He said: “I played against Rangers in four Glasgow Cup Finals and had four wins.
“I have good memories from the youth days but at first-team level it is a different kettle of fish going into these games.
“We’ll hope to replicate the performance from Ibrox last time but with a different result.
“You feel it more as a fan but, first and foremost, you’re a professional going out to win.
“It can get a emotional on the park but you need to be professional, not get carried away and not get too far ahead of yourself.
“It’s a special game to play in, especially as a fan.”
Welsh was pitched in for only his second start in the 2-0 defeat by Rangers in the first Old Firm clash of the season but feels he’s better equipped now.
The youngster – who penned a new four-year deal this week – said: “I was thrown into the deep end. We had the problem with Covid and injuries, then I found myself in the starting XI. I feel a lot more confident now.”
