Burley bowled over by Bhoys
by Brian Etherson, 12 February 2008
Scotland coach George Burley has given a huge indication that several Celtic players could play a big part in his plans for the future.
After watching the SPL clash against Aberdeen on Sunday, Burley made it very clear what he thought of Paul Hartley, Scott Brown, Stephen McManus and Barry Robson.
“I like the midfield blend of Paul Hartley and Scott Brown, I thought they were excellent in the game,” Burley told Setanta Sports. “They stamped their authority on the game right from the start, they are strong, tenacious, they get up and down the pitch and get their foot on the ball, they’ll pass it forward, they’ll go and join in the attack, so I was very impressed with both of them.
“Stephen McManus also had an excellent game. He has grown in stature over the years. Now he is a regular for Celtic and he’s a big commanding figure and for me he didn’t make any mistakes and that’s very important in the central area.
“He covers across all over the pitch at the back and he is also a good communicator and I thought he was excellent today.”
The new kid on the block at Parkhead also came in for praise from the national coach and he believes if Robson can force his way into the side, a dark blue jersey could be waiting on the horizon for him.
“Gordon [Strachan] has a squad there and it’s up to the individual player to push himself in and if he [Robson] gets the opportunity to start or comes on as a sub, like today, and scores goals and plays well, that will help him push himself into a permanent place.
“It won’t be easy but he is capable of holding his own in the side.”