Alan Smith believes Kieran Tierney can follow the likes of Ashley Cole at Arsenal

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Former Arsenal striker Alan Smith has high hopes for Kieran Tierney.

The full-back started his second game for the club on Thursday against Standard Liege in the Europa League, and impressed the Gunners faithful once again.

The £25 million signing from Celtic (BBC Sport) laid on an assist for youngster Gabriel Martinelli, and was a threat all night down the Arsenal left.

Despite only making two appearances so far, the consensus is that Arsenal have done great business getting the 22-year-old in, and Smith – who bagged 115 goals in eight seasons with the club – thinks he has the potential to emulate some big names.

He told the Evening Standard: “I’ve got to mention Kieran Tierney’s contribution [against Liege] because the way he has performed in his first two appearances for Arsenal suggests the left-back is capable of following in the footsteps of greats like Kenny Sansom, Nigel Winterburn and Ashley Cole.

“Swift, skilful and tough, the young Scotsman’s crossing ability especially appeals.”

TBR’s view

It’s extremely early days, but the signs really are excellent regarding Tierney.

The ace is dynamic and appears to have an older head on young shoulders, something that will really endear him to the Arsenal fans.

Hopes are high for the Scotland international. The club are due another top left-back and there’s every chance that, if he works hard, his natural ability will see him reach those kind of heights.