Brown send-off pleases Collins

John Collins was pleased at the reaction of Hibs fans

Hibernian manager John Collins says Scott Brown's goal vindicated his decision to play the midfielder against future employers Celtic.

The two clubs agreed a £4.4m fee for Brown ahead of Hibs' 2-1 victory.

"He has been a great servant to the club," said Collins. "He is a terrific player and a strong character.

"I had no fear about him performing. It was nice for him to score the goal. The fans gave him what he deserved, which was a great send-off."

Interview: Hibernian manager John Collins

Collins has no fears that Brown will be a big success with the Scottish champions.

"He has great self-belief and on top of that he has a great work ethic," said the Hibs boss.

"So there was never any doubt that the Hibs fans would be on his side.

"There was talk of him leaving in January and he played a part in winning the CIS Cup and the fans can relate to it.

"He'll probably be booed when he comes back next year in a different jersey, but it was important that the fans got behind him when he was in a Hibs jersey and they did, they were fantastic.

"So I was delighted for the player."