‘TIERNEY WILL BE WORLD CLASS,’ PREDICTS DAVIES

The Scotland international defender has been outstanding for Brendan Rodgers’ side since returning from injury at the turn of the year.

And Davies insisted the 19-year-old will only get better. The coach is familiar with some of the best full-backs in the UK having worked as an opposition analyst for Rodgers at Liverpool and Swansea.

He said: “Kieran’s an excellent player. The starting point for him is his passion, energy and drive. He’s a massive Celtic fan and it’s great to have one of them in our team.

“He makes mature decisions on the ball and knows what type of cross to play in. He has a good left foot, he can drill a ball in and he can shoot.

“Kieran has lots of qualities, but there is still development to come.

“The manager has worked with some top left-backs and we’ve watched others, too.

“There are definite areas for KT to focus on, but, hopefully, he can keep on developing and become a world-class player here.

“He’s got great pace and power off the mark already. He can mark sharp wingers like Raheem Sterling as he did against Manchester City in the Champions League.

“Wingers don’t like playing against him because he can tackle strongly but fairly. He’s the type who can hurt you when he tackles and wingers know that.

“He’s got this great synergy of old and new-school. That’s what makes him stand out. There’s certainly more to come.”