SPL devalued by start - Brown

Last updated : 09 August 2011 By Team Talk

The SPL season started earlier than usual this year but with clubs allowed to postpone a game in the first three rounds of fixtures to play money-spinning friendlies.

While the Dons were losing 1-0 at St Mirren last week, Sunday's visitors to Pittodrie, Celtic, were in Dublin for a glamour tournament.

There are more friendly games this weekend including the visit of Chelsea to Ibrox as other SPL clubs take advantage of the "compromise" rule.

Asked if that has devalued the league, the Dons boss told RedTV: "I think so. I don't understand that arrangement.

"We were tempted to take a friendly (this weekend) but I think the friendlies, in addition to European commitments, distort the start of the season a bit.

"I think it is a bit untidy looking.

"Financially, of course, it is lucrative and if the Old Firm can get the lucrative friendlies it widens the financial gap between the rest of us and them.

"But they are absolutely correct to take advantage if the SPL authorise it.

"It is just a bit untidy."

Celtic beat Aberdeen five times out of five last season and the Dons have picked up just one point from their first two SPL games.

However, Brown is upbeat and has urged Aberdeen fans to come out in force to cheer their side on.

"I am always optimistic no matter who we play and what the circumstances," said the former Scotland manager.

"I was disappointed last week but we will play better, I am sure of that.

"There is no need for Aberdeen fans to be pessimistic.

"Come and support us and hopefully we will get the result their support deserves.

"Every club is looking for the first win of the season. It gets you up and running and we would like to get that as quickly as possible.

"It would be a major boost if we could get that.

"And if we do our best it will be a very difficult game for Celtic."

Source: Team Talk

Source: Team Talk