Strachan to ignore orders from doctor

Published on Friday 25 May 2007 12:00

GORDON STRACHAN is determined to discard his crutches and lead Celtic out at Hampden tomorrow.

The Hoops boss has struggled to get around following his long-awaited hip operation two weeks ago. However, he is hoping to walk unaided and lead his players on to the pitch.

Strachan, who is aiming to complete a league and cup double, said: "I have not tried to walk without the crutches yet because I am not meant to be weight-bearing for another three or four weeks.

"It's kind of embarrassing. I'm going to try and practise although I don't think the surgeon will be too happy. The big problem is actually getting changed because I am on my own for the next couple of days.

"Trying to get my trousers on could be the real problem! But I would like to think I can walk out with the team.

"I am meant to keep the crutches for two months because with this operation you want to make sure you get it right.

"My operation was meant to be on June 9 but because we finished the league so early I asked if it could be brought forward. If I hadn't done that I would have been struggling to get out on the training field for the first of July. There is a lot to be done in the early season and I wanted to be out there so I brought it forward."