New Ross County arrival James Brown can’t wait to turn out at Celtic Park this weekend, even if it means his friends aren’t cheering him on for a victory.
Brown is one of eight summer signings for the Staggies this summer as Malky Mackay looks for an improved 2023/24 for last term’s relegation-threatened side.
They arrive for Flag Day on Saturday knowing it’ll be a jam-packed Celtic Park roaring on the Bhoys to the first potential three points of the season.
It doesn’t faze the former Shelbourne and Blackburn Rovers defender – he’s excited about the occasion but has urged his teammates to stay professional in the attempt to pull off a big shock.
He said [Press & Journal]: “It’s massive. I’ve had a lot of people text me and I’ve lots of friends coming over to the game. They’re Celtic fans, so they won’t be supporting me.
“It’s unbelievable. A lot of Irish kids would give their right arm to play at Celtic Park, so I can’t wait for it. We have to try and get a result, which won’t be easy. We have to be professional about it, not let the occasion get to us and try and grind out a result.”
County have played four competitive games already this season, comfortably finishing top of their Scottish League Cup group after matches against Greenock Morton, Kelty Hearts, Stranraer and Edinburgh City.
Celtic are obviously a different challenge entirely. They’ll likely look to frustrate the Bhoys on Saturday and the onus will be on the champions to show they can break down a deep defence and clinically take chances.
Ross County suffered four defeats to Celtic last term, conceding at least two goals on each occasion. So we know it can be done. Let’s hope for the same this weekend, leaving Brown on the receiving end of patter from his pals!
In other news, Celtic star lifts lid on Lennoxtown meeting that showed squad “one of the best things” about Rodgers.
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