Some people have suggested that Kieran Tierney should stop playing for Scotland. The defender has struggled with injuries, and stepping away from international football could help him stay fit for his club career.

Callum McGregor retired from Scotland duty to focus on playing for Celtic last season. Because of that, some believe Tierney should do the same, especially as he gets ready to leave Arsenal and start fresh at a new club.

But pundit Marvin Bartley doesn’t agree. He says that Tierney will still want to play for Scotland and has no plans to stop, adding that the defender has plenty left to offer.

Bartley explained that while quitting international football might help Tierney avoid more injuries, the player’s own desire to represent Scotland is stronger than any fears about getting hurt.

He said: (Clyde 1 Superscoreboard), “100%, I believe he still has a lot to give. I think he actually just turned 28 at the start of this month.”

“He will definitely feel that he has a lot to give. Kieran Tierney, by all accounts, is a top, top professional. He has just been extremely unlucky with injuries. It happens to some players throughout their careers.

“He might be at a point now where he is thinking, ‘do you know what, if I can just get a good run at it. If I can get this bad luck away from myself. The way I look after my body, train, rest and everything else.’ If everything aligns, then hopefully, he can have a season where he is injury-free.

“I don’t think that will even be anywhere near his thoughts to think about retiring from international football for Scotland.

“I get from a selfish point of view, from a Celtic fan’s point of view, of course, you want Kieran Tierney to be fit for Celtic, and at less risk of getting injured if he isn’t on international duty.

“But, from a player’s point of view, as long as you can do it, then I think you will always do it, put on that jersey.”

Tierney is an important player for Scotland when fit. His experience and quality make him one of Steve Clarke’s most trusted defenders. When he misses games, his absence is always noticed.

Now back at Celtic after completing a free transfer and signing a five-year deal, Tierney will be focused on staying fit and playing regularly for his boyhood club. He was officially unveiled last week, bringing him home after his spell away in England and Spain.

Some supporters may worry that playing for Scotland could put extra strain on his body, especially given his past injury troubles. Every international break carries a risk, but Tierney has made clear that he’s not ready to step back from representing his country.

For now, he will hope to stay fit, play regularly for Celtic, and continue giving everything for Scotland when called upon.