SCOTT BROWN has ruled out a sensational Scotland return as the Celtic captain admitted that he is only focused on Celtic. Despite retiring in August 2016, Brown returned for Gordon Strachan’s side two months later as they attempted to seal World Cup qualification but sadly, they fell agonisingly short.
Speaking to the Daily Record, Brown has said that there will be no return ahead of the 2020 qualifiers for Steve Clarke’s side, with the 34-year-old only interested in playing for Celtic, which days off while others play international games help.
“I loved playing for my country and captaining Scotland but it was the right time for me to call it a day.
“I do miss playing for the national team but at some stage you have to take care of yourself and look after your legs and I’ve definitely benefited from having those days off while the other lads have been away in the last few years.”
Broony has been relentless over the last few seasons with Celtic, continuing to defy his age and the doubters as Celtic collect Scottish football’s silverware. The captain that lifted Celtic’s first title back in 2012 will be hoping that he can become the first man to win the unprecedented 10th Scottish title in a row.
Brown wants to be playing an integral role in the side as they go for 10IAR as players question whether he will be able to maintain the level of performance as he nears his 35th birthday.
“I haven’t spoken to the gaffer about that in depth. So far it’s just been business as usual, training as hard as I can and trying to get myself as fit as possible.
“As long as I’m available for selection, it’s then up to the manager and the backroom staff as to whether or not I play or whether I’m a bit-part player.
“But I’ll make sure that I’m always here willing to train and play.
“Obviously, I want to be in their plans and play in every game but time may tell. Right now, though, I’m enjoying it and feeling fit and as good as I’ve ever done so maybe the rest has helped me. It’s a bit like the international breaks in recent seasons.”
Brown has played 575 games for Celtic, with the hope that he will surpass the 600 mark this coming season, which would take Brown to 7th above Bobby Evans and Bobby Lennox in the all-time appearance records for the club.
