Overjoyed Charlie Nicholas believes in-form Kieran Tierney can follow in the footsteps of former Arsenal icon Ashley Cole.
The ex- Celtic star has been blown away with the efforts of his compatriot in recent weeks and believes boss Mikel Arteta has found a player capable of reaching the standards set by the Gunners of yesteryear.
Cole is no longer adored in North London after his acrimonious departure for Chelsea in 2007 but many still regard him as the finest left-back of his generation.
And Nicholas is adamant that's a level the £25m Scotland international can reach in the coming seasons.
But the 58-year-old is less than impressed with Tierney's Emirates pals and couldn't resist a cutting jibe aimed in the direction of under-performing David Luiz.
Speaking to Sky Sports, he said: "The full-backs used to hit the byeline when we were good. Ashley Cole and Gael Clichy hit the byline and cut the ball back. Kieran Tierney is and can be like that.
"He has to learn defensively, but who doesn't need to do that at Arsenal? Hector Bellerin is not close to that any more, but Tierney is now a threat going forwards.
"It is more promising, but there are still major problems in defence. With the back three, it is a no thank you to Sead Kolasinac playing in that. It is simply make-do with the David Luiz extension. Why? Is he good in the dressing room? So am I!
"I can come in and be a nice guy, and help the youngsters. You will not take away the bad vibes he has as a player. Not everyone can be sold, but the signs are more promising going forward."
Nicholas' rave review comes after Arteta showered the Scotland international with plaudits in the wake of his rip-roaring run following lockdown.
The Spaniard said: "It's been one of the positive things since I joined, just to get to know him a bit, his character and the way he trains, the way he pushes himself is exactly what we need.
"He's the kind of player I love and I'm really happy with him. He had some really tough moments since he joined the club but now he's much happier, he's settled."
