‘Broony could benefit from ditching Glasgow pressure for Australia’
FORMER Celtic striker Scott McDonald believes that Scott Brown could be enticed to Australia by the prospect of a mental break from the incessant pressure of life at Celtic.
The change of pace and change of lifestyle Western Melbourne are offering is something that McDonald, who was raised in Melbourne, believes could persuade the Celtic captain to opt for fresh pastures this summer.
The 33-year-old midfielder is currently mulling over an offer from the A-League newcomers, although it’s believed the deal is worth less than what was anticipated after Western Melbourne did not get the funding they had planned for.
An extension to his deal remains on the table at Celtic, with the Parkhead side maintaining that Brown will be given ample time and space to come to a decision about potentially his final career move.
“At times, the demand that is put on you as a Celtic or Rangers player is tough,” said the former Australian internationalist.
“You can’t even go and enjoy time with the family and walk out on the street. It can be difficult and Scott has had to put up with that for 10 or 11 years.
“Going to Australia gives the chance to lead more of a normal, family life and that may appeal.
“I have left him to his own devices, but I can see it might be a mental thing, more than physical.
“He might want to escape the madness of the west of Scotland. “We are getting closer and closer to the end of this season without anything being sorted out.
“It is probably a concern for everyone in terms of how long it has lingered on and I think everyone just wants a resolution on it.
“It won’t help Scott at the minute to have it undecided. One way or another he will have to make a decision and I think personally it is something he will be considering seriously and I think he needs to make a decision so he can concentrate on the job in hand.
“Western Melbourne are keen to get his services. Even before they had their place in the league they wanted to speak to him. He would be a fantastic addition to the game in Australia.”
The one pull of Celtic, however, is the prospect of being the man to captain the club to 10-in-a-row.
And McDonald believes that cannot be overlooked as Brown (inset) weighs up his future.
“If the winning continues and you’ve won eight-in-a-row, captaining all of them, why leave?” said McDonald.
“You then have a chance to win nine and ten, but only Scott can answer those questions.
“In Australia, they always want the glamorous signings. The ones with attacking prowess who score goals.
“But fundamentally, Scott can give you core values if you are building a new team..
“He is a natural leader and you want someone like that at the heart of your club.
“Western Melbourne want his services and I do think it’s a viable option for Scott. I have thought he is a homebird and it is a big call to go halfway across the world, especially given the career he has had.
“There is the physical and mental element of it as well. Melbourne has great beach life, city life, and is very appealing.”