Neil Lennon’s new gig at The Times is throwing up so many tidbits about his time at Celtic and insight.
We reported on Saturday about Neil’s view that Ryan Christie is putting himself in the shop window – suggesting to me the former Celtic manager knew of Ryan’s intentions to leave back in August and he was one of the players targeted in his famous post-Ferencvaros rant where he implored unhappy players to ‘just go’.
His insight on Kieran Tierney’s move to Arsenal, although brief, matches up with what we expected when it came to Kieran choosing his career ambitions over the club he loves.
Celtic fans were certain Kieran would stay and try to make history with the Hoops for a couple of more years before moving on. When Arsenal came calling with big money, the player did what was right for him and even though it was sore at the time, we respect his ambition.
Writing in his Times Column, Neil Lennon said Kieran was ‘confused’ at the time when the deal was being thrashed out by the two clubs.
“When I had him at Celtic, Kieran was really confused about what to do in terms of leaving because the club meant so much to him.
“Ambition and finances meant he made the right call for his career. For me, he’s Arsenal’s best player.
“I could see him going to Manchester City, he’s got all the tools to play for them.
“He’s maybe not got the all-rounded left foot that Andy (Robertson) has, that natural whip, but he’s got everything else and he sees things. He’s so athletic and powerful.”
I would love to see Kieran Tierney at a club where he could challenge for silverware on a yearly basis. Yes, he won the FA Cup in his first Arsenal season but the London club are a mess and not in the mix with the EPL big hitters.
Manchester City could be Kieran’s next destination. They might not have the passion like Celtic fans but they have the collateral to make his footballing dreams come true.
