Arsenal legend Alan Smith has hailed Kieran Tierney’s performance against Standard Liege in the Europa League on Thursday and backed the Scotland international to flourish at the Emirates.
Kieran joined Arsenal in the summer from Celtic but was yet to debut to injury. He made his first start for the North London club on Thursday night and set up Gabriel Martinelli for Arsenal’s first goal, a match they went on to win 4-0.
Smith was impressed with the youngster’s display and suggested that he could follow in the footsteps of greats like Ashley Cole
“ I’ve got to mention Kieran Tierney’s contribution [against Liege] because the way he has performed in his first two appearances for Arsenal suggests the left-back is capable of following in the footsteps of greats like Kenny Sansom, Nigel Winterburn, and Ashley Cole.
Smith further observed that Arsenal strikers will benefit from his runs and crosses.
“Swift, skillful and tough, the young Scotsman’s crossing ability especially appeals. For any striker, it’s very handy to know when the ball is coming in so you can make your run with real confidence. Tierney doesn’t mess about. A sharp shift and whip have become a trademark already. It reminded me of the wonderful service provided by Brian Marwood in our 1988-89 title-winning season.