Scott Brown to be awarded a Celtic testimonial

Celtic are to reward their captain Scott Brown with a testimonial, the club has announced.

Celtic have agreed to give Scott Brown a testimonial match. Picture Ian Rutherford

After being approached by a testimonial committee with a request to stage a match at Celtic Park to mark Brown’s contribution, the Scottish champions have agreed, acknowledging his “excellent 
service to the club over the past ten years”.

In addition to a match, the Scotland skipper’s testimonial year will feature other events including a dinner and a golf day. Celtic say there will also be a charitable element to the fundraising.

In a statement on the club’s website last night, chief executive Peter Lawwell said: “Scott has served Celtic brilliantly over the past decade. He has given everything to the club and has played such an important role in bringing us 
success after success.

“Of course, he has also been a fantastic Celtic captain, doing so much for the club on and off the park in this role.

“Scott has always been a winner and it is fitting that he celebrates ten great years at Celtic in such style as an Invincible and by lifting the Treble. We are delighted to grant this request from the testimonial committee.”

Manager Brendan Rodgers, meanwhile, has praised the impact of new signing Jonny Hayes.

The Irish winger won a penalty against Rapid Vienna on Saturday to allow Moussa Dembele to score in a 1-1 friendly draw.

Rodgers, who is excited by the former Aberdeen player’s potential to help his side, said: “He made an incredible run from deep to get onto the ball and then go and create the penalty.

“That’s what Jonny can do. He can take you up the pitch. I like players with that very fast profile in the wide areas as he can go from one end of the pitch to the other very quickly.

“He has that ability to go inside and outside and I thought he was excellent when he came on. He looked a real threat and he worked hard defensively and he’s always an outlet with his quality.”