Scott Brown is following in Neil Lennon’s footsteps. He’s making himself a very hard man to like.
And god knows, I’ve tried. I defended him to the hilt a few weeks ago when someone likened his ability to that of Lee McCulloch, which I thought was extremely unfair as in my opinion Brown is a much superior player.
But it’s always been at the back of my mind that he really is very easy to dislike. Ever since I first saw this video, I’ve had my doubts.
Not that anyone expected insightful, intelligent content but he didn’t do himself any favours there did he?
I’ve seen Scott Brown three times this year. Albeit, only once was he playing for a side that I was supporting. Even when he pulled on the dark blue of Scotland I couldn’t support him. And that shouldn’t be the case. Obviously that sounds like I’m biased, but that’s not the case. I’m perfectly able to appreciate and give credit where it’s due.
He’s got the attitude of a well established junior player, trapped in a Premier League player’s (and captain) body. Two of the three times I’ve seen him play he’s ended up injured. And both times it was entirely his fault. Against Lyon in the 2-2 draw at this years Emirates Cup, a friendly showcase of some of European football’s elite (see where this starts to go wrong?), Brown lashed out at a Lyon player, failing to achieve anything other than pulling up with an injury. And being substituted. The second time was yesterday, after being outfoxed by Kilmarnock’s left back a frustrated Brown lashed out. The Celtic captain threw a leg and tried to stamp his opponent. Once again, he failed to damage his opponent and ended up injuring himself. An injury which merited his withdrawal at the half-time interval.
This actually worked well for his team, who looked much more fluid and able without his influence on the midfield. They looked able to pass freely and play the ball to the front men, unlike in the first half.
And, if you believe paper talk, Rafa Benitez wants to part with £6m to bring him to Inter Milan. I hope Celtic bite his hand off if they’re offered anything like that.