Brendan eyes Scotland stars

A few interesting topics in the media conversation with Brendan Rodgers. His comments on the Scotland team could suggest that one or two in there are of real interest to him for this summer, and of course the gaffer is right to praise Scott Brown, a player that we will miss more than most when he stops playing…

BRENDAN ON BROONY

“Scott’s a selfless man. He gets a wee bit of stick from rival supporters but it’s because he’s so good. And away from football, he’s a caring person. He’s a different personality off the field.

“You can speak to guys who have come here, such as Jonny Hayes. He had a perception of Scott from the outside but he’s totally different behind the scenes.

“And acts like the donation to Liam’s family are a symbol of what Scott is like. It’s an incredible touch.

“Scott only goes into character on the field. People talk him down as a player. But his pass for our second goal against Rangers at Ibrox for Moussa Dembele was outstanding.

“If it had been played by Steven Gerrard or Kevin de Bruyne people would be raving about it.”

RODGERS ON SCOTLAND

“Look through the Scotland team the other night. Scott McKenna can run, Jack Hendry is super-quick, Ryan Fraser is quick, Andy Robertson is quick – so is Matt Phillips and James Forrest.

“And all three central midfielders have good mobility.The top teams at international level have all that but have good technique and tactical awareness too.

“In the Hungary game, you had players of that ilk. Speed, power, unpredictability – Scotland have that.

“Young Jack is someone who might have got overlooked. But he’s 6ft 3ins, quick, he can play and defend.

“McGinn is tough, strong and getting better all the time. If you just match up man-for-man against top teams in the world you’ll probably lose.

“But what if you can find a dynamic way of playing? Scotland certainly have the players for that – it’s just about putting the pieces together and I’m sure Alex is doing that.”

BRENDAN ON CALLUM McGREGOR

“Callum is a special talent because he’s flexible where he can play. Alex will have seen that last week.

“He’s a seven or eight out of 10 every week and has an incredible knack of keeping the ball. At international level, that’s a must.

“Callum makes the game look easy but there are few who can do what he does. And now I see him growing to be a leader. He has more confidence now to talk about the game with senior players.”

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About Author

The Celtic Star founder and editor, who has edited numerous Celtic books over the past decade or so including several from Lisbon Lions, Willie Wallace, Tommy Gemmell and Jim Craig. Earliest Celtic memories include a win over East Fife at Celtic Park and the 4-1 League Cup loss to Partick Thistle as a 6 year old. Best game? Easy 4-2, 1979 when Ten Men Won the League. Email editor@thecelticstar.co.uk

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