IT’S all about the memories and not mementos for Scott Brown as he prepares to make Scottish football history,” writes Neil Cameron
Tonight against AEK Athens, Celtic’s captain becomes the first Scot to play 100 games in European competition, an incredible testament to both his consistency and longevity - which don’t always come together.
No shirts hang on his walls and he could have swapped with a few big names; rather it’s the games themselves which stick in that weird and wonderful head of his.
Asked about his favourite, Brown said: “There have been a lot of bad ones. I’m not too good when it comes to thinking on my feet, as you can probably tell by watching me play. I think beating AC Milan 2-1 with a last-minute goal was probably the highlight.
“It was great to see Gary Caldwell - big fatheid - having a shot and wee Scott McDonald scoring from the rebound. Then there was the guy running on to the pitch and trying to smash Dida. It was a game with everything.
“I played up front with Scottie that night. Gordon Strachan had told me to be a pain in the arse by running about and closing them down, putting them under pressure and forcing them into mistakes. I was up against Alessandro Nesta!”
So, what would he like to achieve next, beginning with this tie against AEK.
Brown said: “My bucket list is just to keep playing as long as possible. I feel as fit and healthy as ever so trying to get in to the Champions League ever year is the main one.
“It was exceptional when Lenny and the boys got to a European final in 2003. There were incredible scenes in Seville with all our fans and it would be amazing to do something like that. I don’t see why would couldn’t do it.
“Our aim is to go as far as we can in the Champions League. We’ve reached the last 16 under Lenny and Gordon so that’s the big push for us.”
“It’s a great honour to become the first Scot to reach 100 games but for me this is all about getting into the Champions League and being involved in the group stages; that’s when it counts more.”
This is probably a 50/50 tie but with Brown around, you would always fancy Celtic.
He said: “We’ve been watching them over the last couple of days and they look in good shape, considering they’re coming back from their summer break.
“They play 4-4-2 and their two strikers look very lively. They’re quite defensive away from home, trying to hit you on the counter but we have quality in our side.”
“Now it’s about playing with a smile on my face and having no regrets. I’m just trying to create as many happy memories as possible, keep winning trophies and getting to the Champions League.
“When you are out on the pitch it’s not about enjoying the game - it’s about enjoying the victory.”
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