Kieran Tierney made his return to the Arsenal first-team football tonight playing 45 minutes in their 0-0 draw with Nottingham Forest at the City Ground. The Scotland international, who recently sealed a pre-contract agreement to return to Celtic in the summer, was brought on at half-time after a rather tense first half from the Gunners’ Italian defender, Riccardo Calafiori.

Calafiori’s Struggles Lead to Tierney’s Introduction

Calafiori, who started the game, was shown a yellow card in the first half and was walking a tightrope. His battle against Anthony Elanga looked to be a difficult one, prompting Mikel Arteta to make the change at the interval. With Calafiori’s situation becoming increasingly difficult to watch, Tierney’s inclusion was perhaps a necessary move to avoid any further risks.

Limited Game Time Since Sealing Celtic Move

Since officially sealing his move back to Celtic, Tierney had played just one minute of football until tonight. However, following Calafiori’s struggles at the weekend in a disappointing 1-0 defeat to West Ham, many Arsenal supporters had been calling for Tierney to be given a start. Unfortunately for those fans, a starting spot didn’t materialise, but his introduction off the bench was a positive sign that he may be building up his fitness in time for a potential starting role soon.

A Return to Celtic After Successful Years at Arsenal

Tierney is set to join Celtic on a four-year deal after his move is completed in the summer. He joined the Hoops in 2005 and came through the ranks, making his first-team debut in 2015 against Dundee. During his time at Celtic, Tierney enjoyed immense success, winning four Scottish Premiership titles, two Scottish Cups, and two Scottish League Cups.

As Celtic fans eagerly await his return to Parkhead, it’s clear that Tierney’s love for the club and his previous success will ensure that he’s more than ready for his next chapter in the green and white hoops.