McNeill family tribute to Scott Brown reminds us which Celtic opinions matter

By Euan Davidson

May 4, 2021

After all the nonsense spoken about Scott Brown today, it was nice to read at least one of Celtic’s sparse updates.

The family of Billy McNeill, Celtic’s Greatest Ever Captain, have shared a touching tribute to the outgoing number 8. Ahead of the last home match of the season, against St Johnstone, efforts are being made to celebrate our 9IAR leader.

While McNeill has been immortalised in statue form outside Celtic Park, it’d be interesting to see whether a similar gesture will be made for Broony. In any case, a statement from Martyn McNeill read [Celtic FC]:

“On behalf of our whole family, we are delighted for Scott’s record as a 9-in-a-row-winning Celtic captain and all his other contributions to the Club to be recognised at next week’s match.

“The leadership, commitment and passion Scott has shown through his time at the club is a major factor in Celtic having won so many trophies and of course making history in a quadruple treble.

“No one would be better placed than our father to appreciate what it takes to be a successful Celtic captain and we know he would be so proud of Scott’s achievements.

“Scott is someone who has given nearly 15 years of his life to Celtic and throughout this time has represented the Club brilliantly. We are sure fans will be eager to pay tribute to such an important figure.

“As a family, we thank Scott sincerely for all he has done for the Club and we wish him and his family nothing but success for the future.”

Leader: Scott Brown / (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Classy gesture from McNeill family, as Celtic captain Scott Brown closes in on exit

The McNeill family didn’t have to do this. However, after a tumultuous season, it’s good to hear people that matter extolling the virtues of our captain. Given the nonsense coming from some quarters earlier today, it’s a refreshing change of pace.

After all, the McNeills know the sacrifices that have to be made on a personal level to lead Celtic. The professionalism, the mentality, the ruthless pursuit of trophies. Those things can be taxing on an individual, and it takes support to achieve it. No doubt, Broony has got his family and friends around him, especially this season.

While none of this was the Hollywood ending we wanted for Broony, we’re sure supporters will make themselves heard. Through the ups and downs (mostly ups), Brown has been a fantastic captain of Celtic Football Club.

And now, if it were needed, he has further approval from people who matter.

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