Callum McGregor enjoyed a brilliant relationship with Scott Brown at Celtic and has followed his lead expertly as Hoops captain.
Intriguingly, the pair’s worlds could be set to collide this weekend amid developments in the last few days surrounding the Ayr United manager.
Brown is keen to speak to St Johnstone about becoming their new manager after being profiled as a potential candidate for the McDiarmid Park vacancy after Craig Levein’s departure last week.
Reports suggest that if talks go to plan, the 39-year-old could be in the St Johnstone home dugout this weekend as Brendan Rodgers’ men travel to Perth looking to preserve their perfect Scottish Premiership start.
Speaking ahead of the clash, McGregor has explained why Brown’s unique leadership skills make him the perfect candidate for a head coach role in the top-flight.
Callum McGregor backs Scott Brown’s credentials
McGregor isn’t surprised by Brown’s positive start to life in management. Crystalised by Ayr United’s leading position in the Scottish Championship table, he has backed his old teammate to become a top-flight manager before too long, regardless of whether that occurs at St Johnstone or elsewhere.
He stated [BBC Sport]: “I know Scott really, really well from my time here. We played in midfield together for a number of years, and when you do that you understand what makes people tick, how good they really are and how much they understand the game.
“It’s no surprise that he’s gone into management, and he’s started really, really well. And I see him having a Premiership job before too long.”
Brown was the ultimate leader on the pitch for Celtic and gave his all in every battle, and he seems to have bucked the trend of great players who fail to set the heather alight in management, for now anyway.
Scott Brown to St Johnstone would be a fascinating move
In the past, questions have been asked regarding whether the former Scotland international would ever return to Celtic Park in a managerial capacity, something he has admitted he would need to earn over the next few years rather than have given to him.
St Johnstone may be a good stepping stone to prove his worth in the dugout. It would be fascinating to see how he got on at McDiarmid Park if he landed the role full-time.
Of course, there is also be the prospect of a blockbuster first match against Celtic. With a healthy away allocation in attendance, it is likely a warm welcome would stem from all four corners of the stadium.
Time will tell whether he faces off against Rodgers on Saturday night. Supporters will keep their eyes peeled amid the potential for an emotional Celtic reunion.
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