Former Arsenal defender Ashley Cole has lavished praise on Kieran Tierney by claiming the Scot transforms the Gunners’ side when he’s fit and available.
The left-back joined the Gunners from Celtic in a £25million deal in 2019 and his all-action displays have made him a favourite with supporters.
However, injuries have upended Tierney’s stint at the Emirates and he’s made just 40 Premier League appearances across his two seasons in north London.
Tierney was back in the side for Arsenal’s 1-0 win against Chelsea on Wednesday night and his full-blooded performance earned praise from Cole, who feels the Scot’s ‘warrior’ spirit makes Arsenal a ‘different’ team.
‘He has been solid,’ Cole told SkySports.
‘I think he would have liked to see more game time, he’s had a few injuries that hampered his season. When he’s in the team, they are a different team, he’s willing to defend, he’s that kind of leader and warrior they need in this team.
‘There were those questions marks over him and his ability to come from Scottish fooball and adapt to the Premier League. But I think he’s adapted very well.
‘He’s got those leadership qualities which are needed along with the younger players in there. When he doesn’t play they miss him on he left. for me, he can defend which is a plus.’
Arsenal’s shock victory has kept the side’s slim European hopes alive.
The Gunners moved above Everton and into eighth in the league table, just one point behind rivals Tottenham.
Defeat to Villarreal in the Europa League semi-finals ended the club’s chances of qualifying for the Champions League but Arsenal could still bag a European finish.
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from metro.co.uk
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