Rest And Be Thankful

Scott Brown enjoyed his close season break and, reinvigorated, the Celtic captain is relishing the challenges ahead.

- Mark Henderson

SCOTT Brown only had a six-day rest ahead of the start of last season, yet he went on to captain Celtic to an unprecedented Double Treble and earn official recognition as the best player in the country.

This time, helped by international retirement, the midfielder has enjoyed a four-week break ahead of the new campaign, which must be ominous news for the rest of Scottish football. He may have recently turned 33, but Celtic’s undisputed leader on the field is fully refreshed and recharged, and he’s determined to continue the club’s domestic dominance.

Speaking exclusively to the Celtic View, the Hoops skipper said: “Last season was hard but everyone has come back a lot fitter because of the break. I had six days last year and came back in and you’re not getting that rest that your body needs, but this year I’ve had the rest and recovery and now I’m ready to go again for the whole season

“I still feel as fit as I’ve probably ever have done and I’ve looked after myself the last couple of years more than I’ve ever have done so it shows you what that does, eating right and ensuring I’m always fit, and once I’m fit I get sharper and stronger as the games go on.

“I went to Italy and had a couple of weeks with the family and then I went to Marbella golfing for a few days before coming back in for pre-season, so it was a very chilled holiday.

“The four weeks off did me the world of good and I like to keep going, so I managed to keep myself topped up fitness-wise. It was good to get that rest and the wee aches and pains away from my body and come in feeling fresh for the start of the season. It’s going to be long and hard but it’s going to be exciting as well.”