Aberdeen opponents using Ronny Deila’s Celtic visits to prepare themselves for Scott Brown test

BK Hacken arrive at Pittodrie tonight ahead of the first leg of their European Conference League tie against Aberdeen but their manager says that due to visits to watch Celtic, he knows what to expect from Aberdeen’s Scott Brown.

Brown, 36, joined Aberdeen in the summer as a player-coach and has recently taken the captain’s armband at the club. The move showcases the Dons ambition but Per Mathias-Hogmo says that he will know what to expect from Brown thanks to visits to Celtic Park under Ronny Deila’s tenure.

As reported by The Daily Record, Hacken’s boss revealed that he had followed Scottish football and singled Brown out for praise.

“I like Scott Brown, he is a fantastic player. It is good for Aberdeen to have him.

“He can help the team to a good season. I have also been to Scotland to visit Ronny Deila when he was at Celtic and I was the Norwegian national coach.

“I have followed Scottish football.”

Ronny Deila replaced Neil Lennon as Celtic boss in 2014 and remained in the top job at Paradise for two years. He left with the best wishes of all involved, winning three trophies and making way for Brendan Rodgers. The Irishman built upon Ronny’s foundations and helped deliver the Double Treble as well as setting up the Treble Treble for Lennon to finish. All the while, Scott Brown was at the heart of these teams urging them on to success.

Brown won 22 trophies in his time at Celtic, becoming the record-holder for most European appearances for the club as he captained a sensational period of success. It will be utterly bizarre seeing a Celtic legend like Brown wear the Red of Aberdeen and their captain’s armband.

The Swedish club will be hoping to get one up on Aberdeen tonight but a result for the Dons would be good for Scotland co-efficient, that can only be a good thing.