There was a lot of Celtic standouts last season, players who came from obscurity and mediocrity became a pivotal part of an invincible season and the credit goes to Brendan Rodgers as well as the players.

With that in mind, there are two players in particular who are desperate to follow the same template as a Stuart Armstong or Dedryk Boyata; Kouassi Eboue and Kristoffer Ajer.

The two 19-year-olds haven’t exactly been high on the list of priorities for Rodgers and his backroom staff debate. Kristoffer split his time between the development squad and then spent the second half of the season out at Kilmarnock where he impressed. Kouassi was brought in

Kouassi was brought in by the current manager but has found game time hard to come by for obvious reasons. Celtic’s midfield has been a well-oiled machine since November last year so it’s been hard for the youngster to get a look in.

Unfortunately, both players have been carrying injuries thus far in pre-season, leaving them on the sidelines as Celtic took part in a three-game tour. Many Celtic fans were hopeful of seeing both stake their claim for the upcoming season and both players are disappointed, to say the least.

While the length of their injuries is not clear, it’s imperative they get back playing as soon as possible or they’ll face another year on the sidelines.

Both have bags of potential, Kristoffer is the youngest player to captain his side in Norweigan football and got a massive send-off when he left for Glasgow. Eboue came in with a glowing report from the manager and seems to conduct himself as a no-nonsense midfielder; an attribute very welcome playing in Scotland.

The two players have the ability to shine, and if Celtic do make it to the group stages of the Champions League, the need for them to step up and help on all fronts will be vital. With a strong squad around them and Rodgers guidance, they have the best chance of succeeding.