Kieran Tierney sealed the perfect return to Celtic Park this afternoon, grabbing an assist off the bench in Celtic’s 4-0 friendly win over Newcastle United.
It was Tierney’s third run-out in pre-season but the first back on home turf, and he wasted no time in reminding supporters of the qualities that made him such a fan favourite during his first spell in green and white.
The goal came from a move that epitomised what Tierney brings to the team. Bursting down the left, he whipped in a superb cross that picked out Scales, who rose to nod the ball past Martin Dubravka.
It was a simple goal on the surface, but it stemmed from the kind of aggressive, purposeful play that Celtic occasionally lacked from that side of the pitch last season. Greg Taylor had been a consistent performer, but Tierney offers an extra dimension going forward with his pace, delivery and natural attacking instinct.
Tierney’s return has been one of the big stories of Celtic’s summer. After putting pen to paper on a pre-contract in January, fans have been waiting patiently for the day he would pull on the shirt again at Paradise.
Today, in front of a Celtic Park crowd, he delivered. His fitness levels look sharp, his movement was brilliant, and his understanding with teammates, old and new, seems to be coming together quickly.
Celtic were dominant from start to finish, and the 4-0 scoreline against Premier League opposition is an encouraging sign heading into the business end of pre-season. But it’s Tierney’s performance that will have left a lasting impression.
Tierney’s attacking output, combined with his defensive discipline, could prove vital as the Hoops look to defend their domestic crown and make an impact in Europe
