Roy Aitken hoping Brown rejects Australia move

Former Celtic player Roy Aitken hopes that current 'Hoops' skipper Scott Brown rejects the chance to finish his playing days in Australia, if approached by new A-League outfit Western Melbourne this summer.

The 33 year old is out of contract at Parkhead this summmer, but Aitken is hopeful that the midfielder will sign a contract extension, which possibly includes a coaching role. 

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has also claimed that he would like the Scot to stay at the club, although he confirmed that he will allow Brown to make his own decision regarding the move.

Western Melbourne are hopeful of landing one the two new slots opening in the Australian top flight in a year's time, and hope that the marquee signing of Brown will mark them as contenders, rather than just another number in the league.

Forrmer Celtic skipper Roy Aitken has viewed his opinion this week on the possible departure of Brown from the Glasgow giants, saying: "'I would be very surprised if Scott Brown doesn't continue playing for another few seasons. I think he's got too much to offer on and off the field because he's a leader.It will be Scott's choice. I made the choice after playing 15 years and having been at the club for 18 years to go to Newcastle."

He concluded: "I can't answer for Scott. All I can say is that he's playing very, very well, he's in a terrific team and is doing a great job as captain. He's done that consistently. He leads by example. Now it's up to him to decide what his next stage is.".