SCOTT BROWN has hailed Shaun Rooney as a ‘real winner’ after making the defender his first signing for Fleetwood Town.
The defender has left St Johnstone to sign a two-year deal at Highbury stadium, just two days after scoring in the play-off win over Inverness as Saints preserved their place in the Premiership.
Having played against him as both Celtic and Aberdeen captain, Brown knows exactly what he will be getting from the 25-year-old as he takes his maiden step into management with the English League One side.
Brown said: “As a player and as a manager I know Shaun really well and know what he can bring to Fleetwood Town.
“I’ve played against him many times and know he’s a real winner who has determination and will put his body on the line for the team.
“He will bring us a lot of quality defensively and going forward as well. Shaun can play in a few different positions and he’s a great addition to the squad.
“From my point of view to have my first signing, a player who I know so well, is a big plus for me.
“I’m really looking forward to working with him.”
Rooney departs McDiarmid Park as a St Johnstone legend having scored in the winners in both of last season’s League and Scottish Cup final victories over Livingston and Hibs respectively.
The right-back moved to the Perth club in 2018 following two seasons at Inverness and has also previously turned out for Queen of the South, York, Dunfermline and Queen’s Park.
In a farewell message to St Johnstone fans, Rooney said: “I thoroughly enjoyed my two seasons at St Johnstone. They have been the happiest and most successful of my career.
"The memories of scoring in both cup finals will never leave me. The pleasure it gave the St Johnstone supporters was an absolute privilege and an honour for me.
“To round it off by scoring our fourth goal on Monday night will be unforgettable. Getting the chance to celebrate in front of a jumping McDiarmid Park will never leave me.
“However, I want to try my luck down South once again and Fleetwood Town are giving me the opportunity to do so.
“I would like to wish the gaffer Callum Davidson, the coaching staff, Liam Gordon and the squad, the Board and the supporters all the very best for the future.”
Davidson said: “We wish Shaun all the best at Fleetwood Town.
"He has played a huge part in what has happened at this football club the last two seasons and he gave his all in every game. As a manager, we can’t ask for any more than that.”
