Oleksandr Zinchenko has hailed his defensive teammate Kieran Tierney as the pair battle it out for a starting spot for Arsenal.

Tierney has been a star performer for the Gunners since moving to London from Celtic in 2019.

The Scotland international has however struggled with injury and this summer Mikel Arteta moved for cover in the shape of Zinchenko.

The former Manchester City man has been impressive for his new side from the off, but he is expecting a fight on his hands to ensure he is a regular starter.

“Tierney is an amazing player," Zinchenko told the Evening Standard.

“Even when I was at City I was watching his games.

“I think it is good competition for each of us.

“We are going to push each other and I think that’s the key.

“That’s how we need to move on.

“The most important thing is both of us want to try and help the team as much as we can.”