John Collins knows Kieran Tierney well.
As assistant to Ronny Deila between 2014 and 2016, Collins was part of the coaching staff which brought Tierney through as an 18-year-old.
He slowly displaced Emilio Izaguirre as the Hoops’ first-choice left-back at the time, eventually growing into one of the side’s main players under Brendan Rodgers.
After years of injury struggles, his stunning goal for Scotland against Denmark was probably the pinnacle of his career. It secured Scotland’s first World Cup qualification since 1998.
It’s fair to say that Collins is happy for him.
John Collins on Celtic hero Kieran Tierney
It really was a sensational night at Hampden, which has got people around the world talking about Scotland.
Three sensational goals marked a 4-2 win over a formidable Denmark side, for whom Kasper Schmeichel was in goal.
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Collins understandably was a proud man watching on, having been one of the first to witness his talents in his senior career.
Speaking on Talksport, he couldn’t contain his happiness for the 28-year-old.
He said: “KT, I helped him into that Celtic team at a young age.
“He’s had a terrible few years with injuries, he’s on the bench, Stevie puts him on at right-back, he knows that Kieran Tierney will do a job for him anywhere.
“You ask Kieran Tierney to play anywhere for you, and you know what you’re getting. 100% commitment.
“It just rolled nicely for him, he’s not tried to burst the ball, he’s just caressed it, passed it into the corner. Just unbelievable. What a time to score at. I’m so happy.”
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Kieran Tierney’s career
Tierney’s career has mixed incredible highs with desperate lows.
He captained his boyhood club on a number of occasions, establishing himself as an idol of the Hoops supporters and winning three trebles.
He became the club’s record sale when he made a £25 million move to Arsenal. Across six years with the Gunners, his progress was halted by injuries.
He has won 52 caps for Scotland, but missed out on games at both of the last two European Championships through injury.
Undoubtedly, though, his goal on Tuesday is what will be remembered of his international career
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