OPINION
Kieran Tierney could reportedly make a “shock” appearance in Celtic’s upcoming Europa League clash against Valencia at Parkhead on Thursday night.
According to the Daily Record, the 21-year-old completed training on Wednesday morning without a hitch and could return to action for the round of 32 showdown this week, having not played for the Bhoys since the defeat to Red Bull Salzburg on December 13.
It is understood that after successfully completing a training session at Lennoxtown, Brendan Rodgers could name Tierney to start against Valencia, which is a major boost to Celtic’s chances.
Rodgers had to name Jonny Hayes at left-back for Sunday’s win against St Johnstone in the Scottish Cup as Emilio Izaguirre was also injured, so the thought of the ex-Aberdeen winger playing in the same role against Valencia would have struck fear into the hearts of many supporters.
However the entire Celtic fanbase will surely be drooling over the news that Tierney could make an earlier-than-anticipated comeback against the Spanish side.
The Scotland international has been one of the Hoops’ best players over the past few years.
He has made 31 appearances for the Scottish giants this term, scoring one goal and supplying six assists in the process.
Though it has not been Tierney’s most prolific season in terms of getting on the scoresheet and creating goals for his team-mates, it is without doubt that the Isle of Man-born ace is one of the most important players at Celtic Park, and to have him available would be a major boost to the club’s chances of winning against Valencia.