Mortiz Jenz was ‘ahead of his time’ when he was coming through the ranks, according to Celtic great Peter Grant.

The former Scotland assistant manager coached the German defender during his spell with the Fulham youth academy.

Jenz signed from FC Lorient in Ligue 1 on Tuesday on a season-long loan, with Celtic having an option to buy as part of the deal.

Grant, who also coached at Parkhead as a member of Tony Mowbray’s backroom staff, is a great admirer of Ange Postecoglou’s new recruit.

“I always thought as a youngster it was too easy for him,” Grant told The Sun.  “When I first started watching him, I honestly believed he had a chance to go all the way in the game.

“As well as being big for his age and very comfortable with the ball, Moritz played right through the age levels. He played for Fulham under-23s with me, mainly as a centre-back in a three. He also played at right-back.

“Moritz was ahead of his time at the younger level, and that’s what I mean about it being too easy for him.”