Celtic boss Tony Mowbray has defended midfielder Scott Brown amid question marks surrounding his conduct.
Former Hibs pair have no cause for concern after conduct fears
Celtic boss Tony Mowbray has defended midfielder Scott Brown amid question marks surrounding his conduct.
Brown played for Mowbray during their time at Hibernian and were reunited again when the former returned to Scottish football with the Bhoys after a spell in charge of West Brom.
The Scotland international is renowned for his aggression on the field but eyebrows were raised when Brown was caught up in a drunk and disorderly storm while recovering from an ankle injury.
However, Mowbray has dismissed the allegations and insists the controversy will have no bearing on whether he picks the 24-year-old against Motherwell on Saturday.
Brown, who sustained the ankle injury while on international duty, could be fit for the Parkhead fixture and his boss believes he has no call for concern as he knows the player's personality from their time at Easter Road.
"I'm not trying to be flippant about Scott but I didn't have to rein him in when he was my player at Hibs," Mowbray told the
Daily Record.
"I don't think he has a major issue when it comes to his behaviour. The bottom line is I know the boy and he's not a bad lad.
"If I thought he had a bad personality I'd be concerned but he's actually a nice lad and I have no problems with him."
Form
Brown has been scrutinised by sections of the Parkhead faithful for his inconsistent showings at the heart of midfield this season.
Mowbray has vowed to be patient and believes a combination of balance and fitness are key to Brown reaching his potential.
He added: "Hibs were better balanced than Celtic when we were at Easter Road. Football teams are all about balance.
"We won't see the best of Scott until we get that right. He's been impressive for us in spells this season and I hope there's more to come.
"He's also done not too badly in spite of being less than 100 per cent fit."
