Barry Ferguson spots change in Scott Brown’s game since midfielder joined Celtic

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Former Rangers captain Barry Ferguson has suggested to the Go Radio Football Show that Scott Brown has matured into a top performer during his 14-years with Celtic.

Brown’s time at Parkhead is due to come to an end this summer after agreeing on a two-year pre-contract to join Aberdeen as a player-coach (Sky Sports), with his final Hoops appearance set to be against Aberdeen on May 15.

The 35-year-old will leave Glasgow as one of Scottish football’s most decorated players after helping Celtic to win 10 Premiership titles, seven League Cups and six Scottish Cups, across his 609 appearances in all competitions that have returned 46 goals and 62 assists.

Ferguson believes Brown’s career has seen him take on a less forward-thinking role over the years having arrived at Parkhead as a box-to-box menace, to becoming one who anchors the midfield and is able to pull the strings for bygone managers.

“I think he has been a fantastic player for Celtic and has improved as he got older,” Ferguson said. “I think everybody would agree with that comment I’ve just made. I think when he first came, he was a different sort of player.

“He was an in your face, box-to-box midfielder and as he’s got older, he’s been playing that number six role and been a top performer. The amount of games he has played, the amount of trophies he has won, I think he deserves an excellent send-off.”

TBR’s view:

There’s no questioning Brown deserving an excellent send-off at Celtic after a trophy-laden spell at Parkhead, which will see the midfielder remembered fondly by supporters for the success and leadership he brought to their club.

The 55-cap international also set a new Scottish record back in 2017 for the most European appearances after overtaking Ferguson’s previous high of 82 (The Scotsman), having featured in 11 editions of the Champions League and eight Europa Leagues with the Hoops.

Brown’s importance on the field has been consistent throughout his time in Glasgow, as well, and will soon leave the Hoops needing to replace the experience he brings to their engine room having started 35 of his 41 appearances across all competitions this term.