Defender | Celtic | Scotland

Skinny

Tierney was born in the Isle of Man but, judging by his immense popularity on the terraces at Celtic Park, you’d think he was Glaswegian born and bred. Marauding down the left-wing with purpose and genuine attacking threat, the full-back embodies the burning passion of his vociferous supporters.

Whether he’s launching into a crunching tackle or running with intent towards the byline, Celtic supporters can be found spectating with deep felt adoration for their rising star.

He is the type of wonderkid who only comes around once in a blue moon. Not only is he blessed with the technical attributes to blossom into one of the best full-backs on the continent, he possesses the right level of modesty and level-headedness to guarantee continuous improvement throughout his career.

2018 has been…

Business as usual for Tierney and Celtic. Another season another title. The dream of ten in a row edged closer to reality, and Tierney played a key role in helping the Hoops to their eighth SPFL title on the bounce, the SPFA Cup and the Scottish League Cup.

On the international front, Tierney has been forced to adapt following the meteoric rise of Andrew Robertson, who now finds himself as captain of Scotland. The question of how Alex McLeish can incorporate both Tierney and Robertson has troubled Scotland supporters. The answer seems to involve a position change for Tierney, with McLeish opting to deploy him at centre-back in his last three appearances in 2018.

That Tierney has provided 10 assists in 2018 is indicative of his penetrative qualities in final-third, so it’s no wonder that fans have reacted with a blend of discontent and scepticism to his new-look role for Scotland.

Away from the pitch, the rumour mill has been rotating a multitude of stories concerning his long-term future. The words Tottenham Hotspur and Mauricio Pochettino are uttered in the same breath as Tierney with an alarming regularity, if you’re a Celtic fan at least, and it’s easy to see why.

If history is anything to go by then Celtic know Tierney’s fate is effectively out of their hands.

What’s next?

We know that Tierney is blessed with a passion for the game which will ensure a lengthy and glowing career, the question is: how far can he go? A place among the Celtic legends awaits, if he wants it, but his exceptional ability hints at a much bigger future, pitting his wits against Europe’s elite. Deepest condolences to the Bhoys.

Celtic Park has a strong history of providing the Premier League with high quality talent. Virgil van Dijk naturally stands out as the most recent example to vindicate that notion, and Tierney may well find himself on a similar path when the time is right.

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