Fans delighted as a forgotten Gunner spotted in training – but something changed

Arsenal fans have welcomed the return of an injury-plagued star to training but have noticed something different about him.

Defender Kieran Tierney has been sidelined since June after sustaining a hamstring injury during Scotland's European Championship match against Switzerland. It was a bitter blow for a player whose career has been cruelly disrupted by injury over the years.

Five months later, the Scot is closing in on a first-team comeback and was part of the squad for the Gunners' Champions League win against Sporting CP. Ahead of the match, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta said: “We have Kieran Tierney after a long injury.

“It's great news that he's back. He has trained with the team and is at the level to participate.”

However, it seems something has changed for the 27-year-old, who was previously known for training in shorts and a t-shirt no matter the conditions. Sleeves and sweatpants were often nowhere to be seen.

But the recent cold snap has clearly proven a bit too chilly for the former Celtic star, judging by footage emerging of him in training, which shows him wearing long sleeves, leggings and even gloves. Fans were quick to snap up his new clothes.

One joked: 'I don't know who that guy is wearing long sleeves, compression shorts and gloves… But it's not Kieran Tierney. That must be Tiernan Kierney.'

Another joked: “Kieran Tierney in gloves and long sleeves and trousers? Complete woke nonsense!” A third weighed in: “Seeing Kieran Tierney in long sleeves, gloves and joggers is new to me. If that's what Arteta needs to love him again, I'm here for it.”

A fourth added: “Kieran Tierney is back in full training but wait? KT in long sleeves and leggings?! I can't believe my eyes!”

On a serious note, most of the Gunners were happy to see him back on the training pitch. One summed up the mood, posting on X: “I will always have great admiration for Kieran Tierney. His career has been plagued by injuries, but when he plays he gives 110% for Arsenal Football Club. He knows what it means to play for the badge. Nothing but love for The Ice King.”