Tierney on Arsenal bench after Arteta downplays January Celtic links | OneFootball

Kieran Tierney was named on the bench for Arsenal’s Carabao Cup Semi Final First Leg against Newcastle. Despite being one of the defensive options available at full back, Mikel Arteta played Myles Lewis-Skelly at left back.

The inclusion in the Matchday squad is no surprise after Tierney was included in the squad for the draw against Brighton. Although, it comes after an update from The Athletic to suggest that the club had not spoken to Arsenal regarding a potential January move but had held contract talks with the 27-year-old.

Speaking ahead of Arsenal’s League Cup clash, Arteta confirmed there was no update regarding Tierney and shutting down any speculation regarding a January exit.

“There is absolutely no news, Kieran is our player.”

Celtic are favourites to secure a return for the player’s sensational return to the club with the Scotland Internationalist reportedly ready to reject Premier League interest and take a pay cut in order to facilitate a move.

Tomiyasu, Timber and White remain out for the Gunners, which is probably why Arsenal will be unwilling to entertain any conversations about losing a fullback who is fit. Celtic would need to first agree the pre-contract and then attempt to get a January deal over the line to bring Tierney to Paradise.