Arsenal writer Charles Watts has claimed that Kieran Tierney has ‘struggled’ this season and it may be a consequence of his involvement at Euro 2020 over the summer.
In recent times, the Scotland international has missed out on the games against Aston Villa and Leeds United due to a bruised left ankle. He is, however, in contention to return this weekend as the Gunners face Leicester City (via football.london).
With Tierney’s position in the team a doubt, Watts spoke about the left-back’s performances for the club this season, claiming that he has not ‘been at top form’.
Watts explained his thoughts on YouTube, saying (08:11): “I mean Tierney, he’s not been at top form this season anyway. He’s struggled, I think, to sort of hit the heights.
“Maybe he’s having a little bit of a post-Euro’s hangover and he’s struggled to find the sort of form he showed on such a regular basis when he was fit last season.”
TIF thoughts on Kieran Tierney and Arsenal…
Up to this point in the campaign, the 24-year-old had started all but one of Arsenal’s Premier League games. Tierney recently drew criticism for the role he played in Arsenal’s 2-2 draw against Crystal Palace, with Ian Wright telling Premier League productions (via Daily Mail) ‘didn’t do anything’.
This is a far cry from the comments his performances drew in the media last season. For example, former Arsenal left-back Ashley Cole referred to the defender as a ‘warrior’ and claimed he transforms the team when he plays.
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Over the summer, Tierney played in two of Scotland’s Euro 2020 games, missing one due to injury. Perhaps this summer excursion has indeed had a lasting impact on the Gunner, as Watts suggests could be the case.
In other news: ‘There’s bridges that need to be mended’ – Watts claims Edu faces ‘difficult situation’ at AFC