Kieran Tierney is struggling for Premier League minutes at Arsenal but offered a reminder of his ‘undisputed class’ during Scotland Euro 2024 qualifying victory over Spain at Hampden Park.
If there is no place for Tierney under Mikel Arteta – the Gunners boss preferring the controlling influence of Oleksandr Zinchenko in that hybrid full-back/central midfield role – then there should be no shortage of interest from rival bosses in a man who, against a highly-fancied Spain side, seized his opportunity with both hands.
Tierney was outstanding on the left of Steve Clarke’s back three; defending stoutly while producing his fair share of marauding forward runs. The former Celtic favourite might lack Zinchenko’s playmaking poise but he makes up for that with boundless endeavour and an infectious enthusiasm.
Arsenal’s Kieran Tierney shines as Scotland beat Spain
“I can say this now. We weren’t in any danger!,” Scotland legend Ally McCoist tells ViaPlay; Scott McTominay’s latest brace securing a famous 2-0 win.
“They were putting crosses into the box and the lads were tremendous. Whether it was (Grant) Hanley, (Ryan) Porteous, (Aaron Hickey), MCTominay with two goals. Kieran Tierney was superb.
“They were absolutely magic.”
Tierney cost Arsenal around £25 million in the summer of 2019. He is reportedly a target for an ambitious Newcastle United side ahead of the summer transfer window; Eddie Howe seemingly eyeing a more attack-minded left-back.
And Tierney, who has started only four Premier League games in 2022/23, would be worth every penny if he can produce performances like that at Hampden Park on a more regular basis.
Football Scotland, meanwhile, handed Tierney a 9/10 rating for perhaps his finest international display.
“He showed his undisputed class tonight,” they write.
“The Arsenal man defended resolutely, and he rarely looks flustered playing out of position at left centre-back. What a player!”
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