Scotland midfielder and Aston Villa captain John McGinn has praised Kieran Tierney as the former Celtic left-back prepares for his highly anticipated return to Glasgow.
Tierney, who has agreed a pre-contract deal, will rejoin the Hoops on a four-year contract this summer, marking a major coup for Brendan Rodgers’ side.
Kieran Tierney and Andy Robertson
REUTERS/Lee Smith
McGinn Delighted to Have Tierney Back
Speaking while on international duty alongside Tierney, McGinn expressed his excitement at the defender’s return to Scottish football. The Villa captain, known for his leadership on and off the pitch, highlighted the quality that Tierney will bring back to Celtic Park.
“It is good to have Tierney back,” McGinn told PLZ Soccer. “We were winding him up about playing left wing last week in the Champions League.”
McGinn’s comments come after Tierney’s recent time spent as a left winger for Arsenal, featuring in key matches such as their Champions League last 16 tie against PSV and the Premier League clash at Old Trafford against Manchester United. While he has traditionally been a left-back, his versatility has been impressive under Mikel Arteta.
A Player of Top Quality
McGinn went on to praise Tierney’s ability, insisting that a fully fit version of the 27-year-old is among the best players in Britain. His return to Celtic will undoubtedly bolster the squad and bring a wealth of experience from his time in England and Spain.
“A fit and firing Kieran Tierney is one of the best players, not only in Scotland but in Britain, so we are grateful to have him back,” McGinn said. “He is a big character among the boys.”
Having dealt with various injuries over the years, Tierney’s career has seen its fair share of setbacks. His most recent injury—a freak hamstring issue suffered while trying to keep up with Jamal Musiala, one of the fastest players at Euro 2024—was yet another setback. However, McGinn believes the left-back has shown resilience and is ready to make an impact again.
Kieran Tierney
Soccer Football – Europa League Round of 32 First Leg – Celtic vs Zenit Saint Petersburg – Celtic Park, Glasgow, Britain – February 15, 2018 Celtic’s Callum McGregor and Kieran Tierney after the match Action Images via Reuters/Lee Smith
Looking Ahead to Celtic Return
While Tierney has recently been getting more minutes for Arsenal, his focus will soon turn to his return to Glasgow. With Celtic aiming for further domestic dominance and European progress, his arrival will be a massive boost to the squad.
“We will see what he will do in the summer,” McGinn added.
Celtic fans will be eager to welcome Tierney home, and if he can stay fit, he has the potential to be a game-changer once again in the green and white hoops next season.
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