Report: Chris Sutton goes full 'Godfather' as Celtic set to offer Scott Brown contract extension

By Euan Davidson

March 13, 2021

Celtic are set to offer Scott Brown a contract extension amidst strong Aberdeen rumours.

Yesterday, substantial rumours suggested that Scott Brown would be offered a new role at the Dons. Former Hibs man Stephen Glass touted as a front-runner for Derek McInnes’ recently vacated job. With that in mind, Broony, a friend of Glass’, is apparently on the brink of joining him as a player-coach.

According to the Daily Record, that’s sprung Celtic into action. The paper report that a “fresh playing deal will be put on the table.”

Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton, a columnist for the Record, went full Vito Corleone in response. The goalscoring great said [Daily Record]:

“Brown’s knowledge and know-how off the park, his motivatory [sic] skills, his leading by example in training and his ability to still perform at high standard would make him a coup for any club.

“He can’t be allowed to leave Celtic. Not now. Not at a time when they are going to need someone with his experience of the place and his ability to unite.

“Brown is a leader of men and, no matter what is on offer at Pittodrie, Celtic need to make sure what they offer means there is not a chance he’ll even think about moving to the North East.”

A serial winner: Scott Brown / (Photo by Mark Runnacles/Getty Images)

Our take: Scott Brown leaving Celtic now would bolster his managerial prospects in long run

Scott Brown, according to the same report, doesn’t want to be a bit-part player. Given he’ll turn 36 at the end of the season, that’s quite a demand to make.

With Celtic looking to rebuild the squad this summer, relying on the tiring legs of Broony may be a folly over a whole season. We’ve certainly not seen the best of the Celtic icon in 20-21. Praised for his leadership and driving midfield displays in seasons past, he’s gone missing in important matches. His impact, once crucial, has waned.

Bhoys supporters are keen to see more of Ismaila Soro. The Ivorian has been one of few bright sparks to emerge in this dreadful campaign. Assurances of playing time could upset the balance of the squad next season.

The Aberdeen offer makes sense. While it’d be beyond weird to see Broony in the red of Aberdeen, it may help his Celtic managerial chances long term. If he’s keen to eventually coach Celtic, then history has proven that spells away from the club can help.

Working under Atlanta United 2 coach Stephen Glass, should he get the Aberdeen job, would be a good opportunity. At a club in flux like Aberdeen, Broony would be a winning influence in a dressing room that has been low on confidence. In a player-coach role, he would be learning on the fly under less pressure. That seems like the sensible option.

Scott Brown may feel he has more to prove at Celtic, though.

He’ll certainly not want to leave on a low note, given everything he’s won.

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