Kieran Tierney has spoken out after proving wrong the people who said he had played his last game for Arsenal. The Scotland defender spent last season on loan at Real Sociedad and many thought he wouldn’t play for the Gunners again. But he has returned this season and made 19 appearances for Arsenal in all competitions, most of them as a substitute.
This comes as a boost for Celtic, with Tierney set to return to the Hoops this summer. He has signed a pre-contract with the Hoops and will rejoin the team he left in 2019. Tierney came through the Celtic youth system and was a fan favourite during his time in Glasgow.
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Tierney struggled with injuries during his time in Spain and England. He didn’t get much game time at Real Sociedad and his future at Arsenal looked uncertain. But since returning to London, he has worked hard, trained well, and been ready whenever called upon. His attitude and work rate have helped him earn chances again under Mikel Arteta.
Tierney said: (talkSPORT), “Since I have come back from my loan spell, they have been absolutely amazing with me.
“Nobody knew what was going to happen last summer. Probably, people thought, I wouldn’t be back at the Emirates.
“But, I have come back, I made an appearance, and everyone has been great with me, especially the fans. I am very grateful for them.”
While Tierney has mostly come off the bench this season, his return shows he is still able to play at the top level. That’s good news for Celtic, who are getting back a strong and experienced player. He has played in the Premier League, La Liga, and for Scotland at major tournaments.
Kieran Tierney and Andy Robertson
REUTERS/Lee Smith
Celtic will benefit from his experience and energy. Left-back has been a position where the Hoops needed more quality. Greg Taylor has played most games this season, and Jeffrey Schlupp has also filled in. But Tierney offers slightly more in attack and defence. He knows what it means to play for Celtic and will bring passion and quality to the side.
The Celtic squad is in a good place but adding a player like Tierney can only make the team better. He is still only 27 years old and has a lot of football ahead of him. He knows the club, the fans, and what is expected at the Hoops.
When Tierney left Celtic in 2019, he did so for a big move to the Premier League. Now, after years away, he is coming back as a more mature and experienced player. He will be a big help in Celtic’s push for trophies next season, both in Scotland and in Europe.
Tees for Tims - Jota Celtic