Ex-Celtic star Christopher Jullien provides key assist as Montpellier pick up big win over Rennes

The former Hoops defender traded Parkhead for a return to France’s top flight and he made a major contribution to land three point and move eight points away from the relegation zone.

Christopher Jullien played a key role as Montpellier picked up a huge three points against Rennes.

The former Celtic defender was picked out with a long free-kick into the box and he was up in the air highest as he headed across goal into the path of team-mate Stephy Mavididi to score the winning goal with just six minutes left on the clock. Teji Tedy Savanier had been sent off for the hosts less than ten minutes into the second half to give his side an uphill battle but the big win puts them eight points clear of the relegation places in the French top flight.

Next up for Jullien and Co are back to back difficult matches on paper away at Champions League chasing Monaco and a Lyon side who could still land European football for next season.

Speaking about his season to date in an interview with his official club website earlier this month, he said: “To be completely honest, I would say “blah”. I always gave the maximum but I must admit that I was not at the top in some matches, far from it.

“When you go through periods when you’re less well, it’s not easy but it’s even less so when the collective isn’t at its best either. Today, since collectively we are better, the individualities stand out better and it’s always easier.

“Conversely, when there are negative results, you concede a lot of goals and you are a defender, it is always difficult. Let’s say that the serenity I feel today I would have liked to bring it as soon as I arrived, but I couldn’t find what I needed.

“What is certain, however, is that today I feel more comfortable and I think it shows on the pitch and at team level.”