Pundit Exclusive: Celtic tipped to hand Scott Brown new deal after unexpected twist

Frank McAvennie has tipped Celtic to offer Scott Brown a new contract this season despite the emergence of David Turnbull and Ismaila Soro.

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider correspondent Dylan Childs, the Bhoys legend said the 35-year-old could form part of a new-look midfield alongside Turnbull and Soro in 2021.

Neil Lennon unexpectedly dropped the club legend for the recent wins over Lille and Kilmarnock, as shock starts were handed to barely-seen midfielders Turnbull, 21, and Ismaila Soro, 22.

Brown was an almost ever-present in the side prior to last week but received criticism as the club endured a barren run of form which yielded just two wins in 12.

The Hoops captain has entered the final six months of his deal at Parkhead having last signed a contract extension in January 2019.

When asked by Football Insider if the success of Soro and Turnbull could effect Brown's future at the club, McAvennie said:

"I think he will get a new deal anyway because of what he does about the club. You need him about the club whether he is playing or not.

"Take my word for it, play as long as you can. There is nothing better than playing and he is still young.

"If he wants to play regularly he could go somewhere else but once again, we keep writing Scott Brown off and he keeps coming back.

"A wee rest for a couple of weeks and he could go in there and play with Soro and Turnbull because they have energy." 

In other news, two senior Celtic stars may be set for Parkhead exit after shock development.