Kieran Tierney made a memorable return to Celtic Park this afternoon, providing an assist in Celtic’s emphatic 4-0 win over Newcastle United.

It was the left-back’s first appearance at Paradise since rejoining the Hoops, and he wasted no time in reminding supporters of his quality.

Coming off the bench in the second half, Tierney capped off a dominant display by Brendan Rodgers’ side with a trademark run and pinpoint delivery to set up Liam Scales for the fourth goal. The move was vintage Tierney, bursting down the wing and whipping in a cross with precision.

The substitute appearance marked Tierney’s third appearance of pre-season, but this one carried extra weight as it was his first in front of the Celtic support since his return. The reception was as expected, loud, emotional, and full of admiration for a player who has long been adored by the support.

While it was only a friendly, the occasion felt like something more for Tierney. His performance, though brief, was impactful and highlighted the added depth and drive he brings to the squad as the new campaign edges closer.

He said: (Celtic TV), “Aw what man. Amazing. I didn’t know what to expect, but that was just brilliant. What a feeling. It was quite emotional actually, going onto the park like that, but amazing. A great day for me.

“Definitely, getting there. Good training sessions, good time in Portugal there and a few games in that, and slowly getting there, Definitely.

“They’re a great team (Newcastle United), so it just shows the quality that we’ve got when we play like that. We can give anyone a game and some of the goals we scored were brilliant today.

“It’s brilliant, but it’s good to get a good pre-season as well and go up the gears and get the minutes and get the games and get used to all the boys and the team. So, yes, I’m looking forward to each and every day.”

Tierney’s assist served as a reminder of just how dangerous Celtic can be with him in the side. His energy and natural connection with the crowd lifted the atmosphere again in a second half that already belonged to the Bhoys.

The result, while not competitive, offered further encouragement for Rodgers as pre-season preparations build momentum. Celtic were sharp across the park, scoring four well-taken goals and keeping a clean sheet against a strong Premier League side.

Scales’ goal added the finishing touch, but it was Tierney’s contribution that drew the loudest reaction, with fans delighted to see one of their own back at Celtic Park.

As pre-season rolls on, Tierney will be keen to build on this momentum and push towards full sharpness. On Saturday’s evidence, he’s not far off.