NEIL LENNON confirmed before Wednesday night’s game against Kalju that if Celtic took a commanding lead to Estonia next week he would more than likely hand a competitive debut to the club’s most expensive defender Christopher Jullien.

The Frenchman has only played in one pre-season friendly and has been building up his fitness in the background. Nir Bitton has been deputising at the back for Celtic with Neil Lennon comfortable putting the Israeli in just like his predecessor Brendan Rodgers did last season.

However, Celtic have a player in Jullien who could be a commanding figure and have a big say in if Celtic can qualify for the group stage.

Speaking to BBC Sportsound before the game, Lennon wanted to be cautious over the player but admitted an emphatic win would push up the player’s debut.

“He has only had 55 minutes against Rennes. We haven’t been able to play too many friendlies – it’s down to scheduling. It’s just a case of people ticking over. If we can get a decent enough lead he can start next week.”

So it looks like after a thumping 5-0 win at Celtic Park it’s time to unleash the defender.