Kieran Tierney’s return to Celtic has already left Brendan Rodgers impressed, with the Irishman praising the defender’s attitude, physicality and determination in the early stages of pre-season.

The left-back, back at the club where he made his name, has yet to feature in a game but has clearly wasted no time making an impression behind the scenes at Lennoxtown. Rodgers, who previously managed Tierney during his first spell at Celtic, is well placed to track the player’s progress and development.

Now 28, Tierney arrives with a wealth of experience under his belt from his time at Arsenal and Real Sociedad, but Rodgers is conscious of the need to carefully manage his fitness after a string of injury setbacks in recent seasons.

While he’s still working his way back to full sharpness, Rodgers says it’s clear that the drive and desire that made Tierney such a popular figure during his first spell in green and white have not changed.

He said: (RecordSport), “Kieran was fantastic in my first time here. He’s gone away and gained a lot of experience and maturity.

“We also want to manage him because he’s had a lot of troubles in his fitness history over the last few years, but it’s great to have him back.

“You see that power and I know he’s so excited about being back. Like I say, he’s only in the building, but he’s going to get up to speed.

“You see that competitiveness that he has and he’s doing really well.”

Rodgers has been clear that Tierney brings more than just quality on the pitch. His attitude, experience and knowledge of the club are seen as big assets in the dressing room.

Supporters will be keen to see him back in the team, but Rodgers has made it clear there’s no rush. With a full season ahead and Champions League qualifiers on the horizon, Celtic plan to ease him in.

Rodgers’ praise suggests that, once fully fit, Tierney is expected to become a regular again. If he stays injury-free, his return could be one of the most important signings this summer.