Celtic defender Kieran Tierney says he’d relish the opportunity to captain Scotland after veteran midfielder Scott Brown announced his international retirement, reports Sky Sports.
“I think myself, yes I would. But it’s not up to me at all. It’s up to the manager and his staff and whatever they think.”
Tierney received his first cap for the national team in March 2016 against Denmark and has gone on to represent Scotland nine times. The 20-year-old has skippered for his country on one occasion back in September 2017 against Netherlands and says he wants the job full-time.
“I’m still a young boy – I’m 20-years-old. But I’m ready for any challenge.”
At club level, the left-back has already won two league titles, two League Cups and one Scottish Cup so he’s part of a winning mentality at Celtic that Scotland could benefit from.
Brown’s decision has left manager Alex McLeish with a decision to make on who’s the best fit to replace him. Tierney plays with the midfielder at club level and can certainly learn from him to become a good captain.
“I think he (Brown) has said in one of his interviews he can see that happening. I’m obviously not going to say that, but just to captain the games I have has been a great honour. I’m just going to work hard and see where it takes me.”
The left-back paid tribute to Brown, calling him one of Celtic’s most iconic skippers, and says there isn’t a better player to learn from than the 32-year-old.
“He’s a leader on every occasion. No matter what the game is, he’ll give 100 per cent. He’s Captain Fantastic, and for me – coming in as a young boy – there’s no better role model.
“I think he’s one of the most iconic captains this club’s had and just to be here at the same time as him is an honour for me.”
Brown joined Celtic from Hibernian 11 years ago and has gone on to make 465 appearances in all competitions. He’s won seven league titles, five Scottish League Cups and three Scottish Cups during his time at Parkhead.
