Kieran Tierney has returned to Celtic, but the 28-year-old defender’s injury history means Brendan Rodgers will have to be smart with how he uses him. The left-back has had several setbacks over the years, and managing his fitness will be crucial as he begins this new chapter in Glasgow.
The former Arsenal man arrives with plenty of experience but also with a body that’s been through a lot. Rodgers will know he can’t rely on Tierney to play every game, especially with a busy domestic and European calendar on the horizon.
Tierney is back at the club where he made his name, and while his minutes will need to be managed, his desire to play remains strong. There’s been some talk about whether he could follow Callum McGregor’s lead and retire from international football to extend his club career.
But former Celtic defender Charlie Mulgrew doesn’t see that happening any time soon. Mulgrew, who knows what it’s like to deal with injuries while juggling club and international duties, believes Tierney’s passion for playing for Scotland remains strong.
He said: (RecordSport), “I don’t see him as that type of person, but as you get older, you probably get a bit wiser in your thinking.
“If that’s something he might decide to do in the future, I don’t know. I don’t see him as that type of person.
“I think he’s pretty passionate and he wants to be involved and play as many games as he can.
“I’ve been there before when I’ve had injuries. It doesn’t stop you wanting to be involved with your country and your club.
“You’d need to ask him what he’s thinking going forward with that.
“For me, he’s the type of person who would like to play in as many games as he can play in.”
McGregor’s decision to step away from Scotland duty at 31 was a big one and came after years of putting his body on the line. Tierney, still only 28, might not be at that stage just yet, even if his injury record suggests his minutes need to be watched.
Rodgers will want to get the best out of Tierney without overloading him. With Greg Taylor looking set to leave, and potential new signings coming in, there should be options to rotate.
Keeping Tierney fit could be key to Celtic’s plans next season, particularly in Europe where his experience and quality will be vital.
For now, though, it looks like Tierney remains committed to playing for both club and country – and it’ll be up to Rodgers to make sure he’s managed in a way that allows him to do both.
