Classy Tierney d world at his feet,

CHRIS DAVIES believes Kieran Tierney can develop into a genuine world-class player by sticking with Brendan Rodgers and Celtic.

Assistant manager Davies admits the talented 19-year-old left-back (right) has impressed him on a number of levels this season — principally through his performances, but also his ability to seamlessly slip back into the team after damaging ankle ligaments in October.

Tierney’s surging runs down the left flank were again the standout feature of Celtic’s play in their midweek win over Aberdeen at Parkhead.

And Davies, who used to scout the opposition for Rodgers at Liverpool, admits the teenager compares favourably with the best full-backs in England.

Crucially, he does not believe the Scotland cap needs to move south to realise his potential.

‘The starting point for KT is his passion, energy and drive,’ said Davies ahead of today’s Premiership match against St Johnstone in Perth.

‘He’s a massive Celtic fan and it’s great to have one of them in

the team. His love of Celt may keep him here but there's also a recognition that this is the best place for him. The manager has made that clear to him and, as far as I’m aware we all agree on that.

‘Kieran is best served staying here, playing and developing What the manager can offer is the opportunity to develop him into a world-class player because he has proved that with others.

‘If KT ever feels like it’s the best thing to do, then he may choose to leave but that’s certainly not in my mind.'

The youngster came to the fore under Ronny Deila last season, performing in Ce Europa League matches as if he’d been in the team for years

Before sustaining his training-ground injury, he took his European development to a new level in the Champions League, going toe-to-toe with Raheem Sterling and even forcing an own goal from the Manchester City winger.

‘He has great pace and power off the mark, so he can track wingers who are sharp like that,’ continued Davies.

‘Wingers don’t like playing against him because he can tackle strongly. He does it fairly but he is the type who will hurt you when he tackles and wingers can see that.

‘He has this great synergy of old and new school, and that’s what makes him stand out.

‘He has had injuries, but he bounces back even stronger. He has the mentality and that’s the basis of any player who goes on to be a top player.’

Tierney’s down-to-earth nature saw him revert to watching Celtic with his pals during his injury lay-off. He has also shunned the fancy haircuts and luminous footwear favoured by so many of his peers.

There is something rather old-fashioned about his running style, a slightly unconventional gallop belying just how quickly he is covering the ground.

‘Coaches will quite often comment on his body-shape,’ said Davies. ‘He has muscular legs but you would not look at him straight away and say he’s this or that.

‘He’s a very good player and there’s more to come.

‘Add to that he’s making good, mature decisions on the ball. He’s deciding when to run and what type of cross to play.

‘He has a good left foot, can shoot, can cross and can drill a ball. He has a lot of qualities and there is still more to come.

‘The manager has worked with some top left-backs and we have watched others, so there are other areas for KT to focus on.

‘Kieran is inspiring, he creates energy for others because of his enthusiasm. That rubs off on other players.’

‘In and around the place, he’s polite, well-mannered and has a good personality, too.’