"Very funny and cheeky!"; Donati gives insider perspective on Celtic legend Scott Brown

By Euan Davidson

April 30, 2021

I once met Scott Brown at a charity do. He was down to earth and VERY funny.

Well, not quite: but Massimo Donati has inadvertently paraphrased Limmy in his praise of Celtic captain Scott Brown. Much has been written and said about the outgoing Celtic icon, who has won an incredible 23 trophies in a glittering career [Transfermarkt].

Broony, who has wound up everyone from Ian Holloway to Vinnie Jones, will be partaking in his final Glasgow Derby this Sunday. Celtic will be desperate to end Rangers’ league unbeaten run and restore a measure of pride. It’s not been the campaign that supporters or players dreamt of when the 20-21 season kicked off.

Donati, in an interview with the Sun, expressed his admiration for the legendary no.8. The Italian started alongside Brown for the skipper’s first Glasgow Derby, and has given insight into the future Aberdeen assistant’s character.

Donati said [Sun]:

“I soon realised the Scott Brown you see in games is different to the one off the pitch.

“When it is match-day he is completely focused and absolutely determined to help the team get a victory.

“But away from the games and training he is a very funny guy and cheeky!

“He is also very kind and willing to do anything to help a team-mate.”

Donati is beaten to the ball by an unknown Barcelona youngster / (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

Scott Brown influence obvious to anyone who’s watched Celtic over the last 14 years

Throughout his time at Celtic, Brown has always been pretty forthcoming. His press conferences are often the stuff of legend, having earned himself his own Patter Highlight Reel here on 67 Hail Hail. Broony’s always good value on Celtic TV, or on YouTube. He’s a captain who likes to have a laugh but also represents the club with distinction.

He may not have arrived a Celtic fan, but he’s become a legend at the club. He’s someone who understands the responsibilities of the club. Barring a couple of very minor indiscretions, Broony has been a fantastic ambassador. Make no mistake: his on-pitch influence is on the wane, but his importance as a dressing room figure will be missed heavily.

You always got the sense that on-pitch and off-pitch Broony were two different beasts. He’s a sight to behold in the tunnel before matches; a stony, muted figure who looks almost possessed by the desire to win. That’s an attitude that’s seen the club win 10 league titles during his time with us, as well as six Scottish Cups and six League Cups.

It’s nice to hear from Massimo Donati, too. He may not always have been the most impactful, but he’s another player who came to Celtic and immediately fell in love.

Could we see a Broony/Donati management team at Celtic Park in the future? Don’t rule it out.

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