Transfer target has already made ‘disappointed’ admission amid Newcastle United links

Kieran Tierney has already admitted his disappointment at Arsenal amid links with a move to Newcastle United.

The full-back is said to be on Newcastle’s radar this summer after falling down the pecking order at Arsenal. The Gunners signed Oleksandr Zinchenko for big money in the summer, and the Ukrainian’s arrival has had a major impact on Tierney’s game time.

Injuries haven’t helped, but the Scot has started only five Premier League games for Arsenal this season, making a further 18 appearances from the bench.

Newcastle will be in the market for a left-back this summer, and despite Tierney’s injury issues, the former Celtic star has the quality to make an impact, still only 25 years of age. As transfer links continue to gather pace, it’s worth taking a look at what Tierney said about his displacement at Arsenal just a couple of months after the season began.

While the Scot showed a fighting spirit about his situation, he did not hide his disappointment during the interview with Arsenal’s official website.

“It’s been tough,” said Tierney. “I missed pre-season coming back from an injury, and the first game I played in was the Palace one - that was the first week of training that I had. I’ve just been trying to get minutes here and there so it’s been a tough start, but whether I’m first, second or third-choice, I’m just going to keep working hard and see where it takes me.

“I wouldn’t say [competition] motivates me more, as whether I’m the only left-back or there’s five left-backs, I’m still motivated to play and to do well. Day-to-day, nothing changes in my life; if I’m playing or not I’m just working as hard as I possibly can. I train hard, and if the manager calls on me, I’m ready.

“I want to play every game possible, when you don’t play like all footballers, you’re disappointed but when you get your chance, you just need to make sure you go and take it.”