Exclusive: Brown has begged Celtic chiefs to keep exit-bound senior star
Scott Brown urged Celtic chiefs to keep hold of Jonny Hayes for at least another year, Football Insider has learned.
The 32-year-old revealed in an Instagram post last night that he will leave Parkhead when his contract expires at the end of this month.
Skipper Brown hinted at his disappointment by leading the social media tributes to a key member of the squad during the three years since his arrival from Aberdeen.
Brown replied: "Going to miss you my man. What a man and what a player. Hard going in the dressing room to replace."
Behind the scenes, Brown is said to have strongly expressed his view that the Republic of Ireland international should stay on for another season.
A Celtic source has told Football Insider that the iconic skipper made clear to club chiefs how Hayes' influence spread far further than on the pitch and that he has been a huge figure in the dressing room and on the training ground.
Brown is big pals with the Irishman and they have started doing their coaching badges together.
Celtic this afternoon announced Hayes' departure, as well as that of defender Jozo Simunovic.
The former Dons ace did not divulge whether he is leaving because he did not get the contract offer he wanted or he is simply looking for a new challenge.
Hayes will leave Parkhead after winning eight trophies and making 68 appearances in three seasons.