Darren Fletcher has raved about the qualities of Celtic youngster Kieran Tierney and feels he has a “massive future” in the game.
Fletcher, who is a Premier League midfielder with Stoke, plays alongside Tierney for international side Scotland.
The duo both featured during the international break and were unable to guide Scotland to the World Cup play-offs despite a valiant effort.
Tierney, 20, is recognised a major talent for Celtic and is already a crucial first-team member of Brendan Rodgers’ side plus a mainstay for Scotland.
The left-back has been tipped for great things in the future, but has already won two top-flight titles with Celtic and featured in the Champions League.
Fletcher believes that the hype surrounding Tierney is certainly warranted and is expecting big things to come from him.
“He is a fantastic talent with a massive future,” Fletcher said, as quoted by the Glasgow Evening Times. “I can’t speak highly enough of him either on or off the pitch. I think we are really witnessing the rise of a player who will be a very special talent.
“You are always aware that there can be an element of hype with young players and I always tend to be naturally wary of that but I think with KT it is justified. It is not just his natural ability – which is there for all to see – but his power and everything about him.”
OPINION
Celtic fans will fear losing Tierney in the future as he continues to develop into a fine player and there is every chance he could eventually leave. He is becoming a modern day full-back as he has the attacking prowess to match his defensive discipline. The 20-year-old has already achieved a great deal at Parkhead and could find it hard to resist a move if the Premier League’s big hitters come calling in the future. Celtic need to enjoy watching the talented defender while they can as he is one of the star men for Rodgers.