Times Talker: Should Kieran Tierney be given a prolonged run in Celtic's first-team?

No, says Alison McConnell

Kieran Tierney did more than just earn pass-marks with a strong performance against Fenerbahce that belied his inexperience and teenage years.

However, with Emilio Izaguirre due to return from suspension it makes sense to take things slowly with the Isle of Man born youngster.

Celtic’s forward play at the minute remains good and at times there was some good, positive football played against Fenerbahce. But there is a worryingly soft centre at the heart of the Hoops defence and an inability to protect a lead is one of the main problems that Ronny Deila has to address if the club are to make any inroads in Europe this term.

In that respect, there is a need for experience as Celtic get a level of consistency, particularly with the back four. The constant chopping and changing in personnel this season, some of it due to injury and suspension, and some due to establishing the strongest backline, has not helped matters.

Tierney should take much satisfaction not only from his performance but also from the fact he is clearly trusted by his manager to do a job. Tylet Blackett, by contrast, looked out of depth when he made a late appearance last night against the Turks. But we have a tendency to over-hype young players on the back of a handful of appearances - taking it slowly and offering him some protection seems the most sensible approach.

Yes, says Neil Cameron

FOR the past 18 months, if you have listened carefully enough, the name of one Kieron Tierney has been spoken warmly about by those in the know inside Celtic Park.

And know we all are in the know.

The left-back is only 18 and while that is young, really young in fact, he should be given a run in the first-team.

Emilio Izaguirre has been excellent for the club and has actually began the season well, however, Tierney is the future are I would for one would like to see him being given at least the next six games.

For a kid, he always looks for the ball and never hides. That's impressive. His left foot is a wand and he's good in the tackle.

I am told that he is great going forward, which we have seen glimpses off, and once his confidence grows he will do more of that.

He could do with a pie supper in him - a gust of wind would knock him over - but young Tierney looks like a footballer.

Celtic's history boasts plenty of attacking full-backs. They might just have another good un.