Chris Sutton believes that Celtic must move to tie down Scott Brown immediately, and believes yesterday’s Glasgow derby was proof he still has a major part to play.
Brown played 88 minutes of the stalemate at Parkhead as Celtic were held to a 1-1 draw by a Rangers side who were bossed for a second consecutive derby clash. The Hoops captain played a key role in ensuring Celtic’s midfield dominance. He showed his power and aggression to get the better of Glen Kamara and Ianis Hagi respectively.
And it comes at a time when Brown’s contract is coming to its end. Broony’s deal is up in the summer, with fresh terms reportedly on the table. However, it’s been said that he will only accept if he isn’t a bit-part player next season [Daily Record].
Sutton, meanwhile, believes it’s a no-brainer to have the captain in the trenches for another year. And he feels yesterday’s dominant showing was proof of it.
“I’ve banged on about it”
As quoted by the Daily Record, Sutton said: “Scott Brown showed me once again why talk of moving into a coaching role at this stage of his career is simply not an option. Much was made of the leadership qualities he displayed prior to kick-off when he marched into the opponents’ half during the warm-up to give his support to Glen Kamara.
“But it was the way he competed against the Finn and the rest of the Rangers midfield for the 90 minutes that followed that was the key takeaway for me from a match that meant very little. Brown proved again he’s good enough to keep going at this level and should be nowhere near Aberdeen or a coaching role in the summer.
The 35-year-old’s place is at Celtic Park helping with any transition and being the glue for the club when the big changes are made. I’ve banged on about it and I will keep doing so until he’s signed up for 2021-22. It needs to be done now.”
Chris Sutton may think otherwise, but Celtic can’t promise Scott Brown constant game-time next season
It’s easy to latch onto a dominant derby display and say a new contract simply must be offered. But that would be a touch naive, especially considering Brown has struggled for consistency all season. Yesterday was probably his best performance of the season as he provided the back-line with efficient protection.
The issue here is the matter of game-time. If Brown is happy to sign on next season and play a bit-part role, that would be ideal. If he wants to be playing every minute and be one of the first names on the teamsheet? That’s just not on and simply can’t be guaranteed.
We have Ismaila Soro looking to break through and he’s already proven that he’s the future of the defensive-midfield position. Yes he has plenty to learn, but there’s no point shielding him from big games anymore. Especially considering how he bossed proceedings at Ibrox back in January.
There’s also the new manager factor too. Who’s to say a new manager will want to play Brown in every game? Perhaps he’ll want Scott around but only for his experience and to use him on occasion.
Not one player in this squad can be guaranteed constant game-time next season. Not even Brown’s expected replacement Soro. It’ll all be dependent on whether a new manager is impressed by what they bring to the table.
That’s why Celtic must continue to wait for any new gaffer’s verdict before a final decision is reached on Brown.
In other news, Jack Hendry has been discussing his long-term future, and told his current loan club’s fans what they want to hear.
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