Neil Lennon says he was heavily tempted to take former captain Scott Brown to Cyprus in his new role as Omonia Nicosia boss.
But he's passed on a big Celtic reunion as it comes too soon after the 36-year-old and Aberdeen cut ties this week.
Brown is on the lookout for his next role after departing the Dons.
Record Sport revealed earlier this week that former Hoops boss Brendan Rodgers has offered a chance to join him at Leicester City.
And Ange Postecoglou went on record to say there will always be an open door for him back at Parkhead while he's in charge.
But Lennon says while he considered calling up his old mate the timing isn't right.
Speaking to the Scottish Sun, he said: "I thought about Scott, I’m not going to lie.
"But it was just the timing of it, me coming here and Scott leaving his post at Aberdeen.
"It’s no secret how highly I regard Broony. He was a wonderful captain for me and I’ve got all the time in the world for him.
"I think he needs a bit of time, a bit of reflection time with his family and he can see what other opportunities there will be for him.
"It’s probably too soon for him to come out and do something like this anyway, although he’s always welcome to visit.
"It would be great to see Broony if he fancied getting away from it all.
"For Broony, I hope that people take away all the nonsense that’s said about him and what they think about him.
"Just look at his career from a stone-cold point of view and realise what an absolute legend of the Scottish game he is.
“That’s not a term I use lightly, but Broony deserves that kind of recognition for what he’s done in the game.
"I definitely think I’ll work with him again one day. Maybe Broony can do the top job and I’ll just sit beside him and make the tea!"
