It does seem that this story will keep running until one side puts a stop to it. There’s been plenty of talk about Scott Brown playing for Scotland again, but there’s no reason for either side to make a decision until closer to the time.
Only Broony will know how much of an impact retiring from Scotland duty has had on his Celtic career. You have to think that the extra rest can only be good for him as he gets older, but that kind of thing is impossible to measure.
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The Daily Record has reported on some comments from Chris Sutton on the issue. It seems that he thinks that Scotland have moved on from Brown.
Sutton said: “No I think that ship has sailed. He’s been in great form this season but that’s Scotland ‘s strength though in the middle of the park.”
He went on to add: “I don’t think that would necessarily benefit him. He has been phenomenal this season and the fact that he has had the rest. I don’t think that would benefit either party but maybe it will sell a few DVDs.”
Clearly Sutton does think the extra rest is providing a huge benefit for Brown this season. It’s important to remember that Scotland will have to win two important games to actually qualify for Euro 2020 so there might not even be a decision to make.
If we assume that Brown does have the chance to play at the Euro’s then it could have a huge impact on him next season. He will turn 35 next Summer so would surely need a rest afterwards. Celtic’s season tends to start very early with the Champions League qualifiers, so it’s unlikely he would be at his best for them.
The appeal of playing at a major tournament for his country is obviously a huge thing to consider, but it would probably have a detrimental impact on his club form next season.
If you take the emotion out of it, then it really might be best for everyone involved if he doesn’t come back.
