It’s just Scotland’s luck that after waiting longer than a generation for a once-in-a-generation talent, two have emerged at the same time. And they play in the same position. Andy Robertson is one of the two, with the former Dundee United and Queen’s Park man now excelling at Liverpool, helping the Reds to the Champions League final. The other is Kieran Tierney.
Many believe Tierney to be even brighter a prospect than Robertson. He’s been a key figure at Celtic since breaking into the first team at the age of 17. He’s won three league titles, could help clinch a Double Treble with victory in this weekend’s Scottish Cup final and has played in the Champions League. He’s still only 20.
Not a week goes by without Tierney being linked with a potential suitor. Last week, it was Bournemouth. This week, it’s Atletico Madrid, who are expected to send scouts to watch the left back against Motherwell at Hampden this weekend. Previously, it’s been Manchester United and Spurs. Almost every elite club has been linked with Tierney at one point or another.
But despite this interest, Tierney this week insisted that he’s not interested in leaving Celtic. “I've never thought about elsewhere yet, in my life,” he said. “It's just been Celtic since the age of seven. I've never even been on trial with an another team," said Tierney. "I was at my local boys' club then moved to Celtic at seven. Can I see myself being here all my career? Yes, I can. But, you never know in football. I've never thought about being away from Celtic. Maybe one day it will happen.”
It’s understandable that as a Celtic fan Tierney has a sentimental commitment to the Glasgow club. That should be cherished. But from a professional perspective, these remarks demonstrate a lack of ambition from such a talented, young player. Tierney is good enough to reach the top of the game, but, of course, it’s possible that he's playing a public relations game by making such comments. He might think differently if a bid from Atletico Madrid or Manchester United actually materialises this summer. But if he’s being truthful, he risks stalling his development as one of the best Scottish players in a generation.
Too often, Scottish players show a lack of ambition, a lack of drive. This is frequently what holds them back as they sink into their comfort zone. Tierney should be better than that. If the opportunity presents itself, this summer or in transfer windows to come, the young left back must push himself.
