John Hartson discusses whether Celtic will offer a contract to Mikael Lustig

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John Hartson has told the Evening Times that he is “not sure” if Neil Lennon will hand Mikael Lustig a new Celtic contract before the end of the season – despite regaining his starting spot again.

Lustig, 32, is currently set to see his Celtic contract expire at the end of May. The Daily Star claim the Sweden international is earning a whopping £24,000 a week.

Throughout the first half of the season, Brendan Rodgers used Anthony Ralston at times over Lustig. Jeremy Toljan was brought in on loan from Borussia Dortmund, and that saw Lustig drop to the bench.

But Lustig has returned to the side with Toljan’s form questionable. He has impressed, playing the previous three matches before Lennon opted to play with Kris Ajer at right-back against Livingston.

Hartson discussed his contract: “I am not sure if Celtic will decide to give Mikael Lustig another year even though I know that Neil likes him and has been playing him in recent weeks.”

TBR’s view

Lustig has been an excellent servant to Celtic over the years. Joining the club from Rosenborg in January 2012 on a free, he has gone on to make 270 appearances for the Hoops.

But sentiment must be put aside. Lustig is now 32, and has certainly lost a yard of pace. Though experience counts in his favour, Lustig is declining and at £24,000 a week – he is not worth it.

Lennon needs to send Lustig packing this summer rather than keep the defender at Parkhead.