Kieran Tierney’s return to Celtic was always going to bring scrutiny.
The expectations were enormous and so were the questions about whether Tierney’s body could withstand another demanding Celtic campaign after several injury setbacks.
Supporters knew exactly what he could offer when fit. The uncertainty centred on whether he could stay available often enough to make the impact at Celtic many hoped for.
Now, with the season complete, that debate should be over. Tierney’s performances have provided a clear answer and the statistics behind his campaign make an even stronger case.
What do you think is the main reason behind Kieran Tierney’s goalscoring form this season?
How many goals do you think he will score?
Jackie McNamara highlights why Tierney has thrived at Celtic
Before looking at the numbers, it is worth considering what Jackie McNamara had to say about the defender’s season.
The former Celtic captain told the Daily Record, “KT’s numbers have been excellent in terms of deliveries, assists and goals. “Even the Scotland goal he scored against Denmark was impressive. I think he’s had a terrific season, especially with the pressure for him to come back at that point.
“Everybody had their expectations, the young kid that left to go to Arsenal was coming back and people maybe doubted his fitness levels and everything else.”
McNamara noted that some people questioned Tierney’s fitness levels after his return, but believes the defender’s performances have answered those concerns.
That point should not be overlooked. Modern football requires clubs to protect key players and Celtic appear to have found the right balance with Tierney.
Tierney’s Celtic stats fully support McNamara’s verdict
McNamara continued, “But his numbers show he’s handled it really well. I think Celtic have tried to manage his minutes, which you’re seeing more and more in the game now.
“When you play over 50 games a season, you’ve shown that your body can handle it.
“Now he’s going away to play a World Cup which is fabulous.”
McNamara’s argument becomes even stronger when the raw numbers are laid out. Few players carrying genuine fitness concerns produce this level of output across an entire season.
If there was any doubt about Tierney’s influence this season, the numbers quickly remove it.
- 6 goals
- 8 assists
- 53 chances created
- 12 big chances created
- 50 successful crosses
- 1,448 successful passes at 82% accuracy
- 58 tackles
- 133 clearances
- 215 defensive contributions
- 107 recoveries
Those are not the numbers of a player struggling physically or being sheltered from responsibility.
They are the numbers of a player consistently impacting matches at both ends of the pitch and delivering throughout the season.
That is why McNamara’s assessment is difficult to argue against. Tierney has not only returned to Celtic, he has returned as one of the club’s most important performers.
Celtic deserve credit for managing him correctly, but the biggest credit belongs to Tierney. His performances have turned a legitimate concern into a debate that no longer exists.
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