Former Rangers striker Billy Dodds believes that Aberdeen can make a significant statement of intent if they manage to defeat Celtic at Celtic Park this weekend.
The Dons, enjoying a brilliant start under new manager Jimmy Thelin, sit level on points with the reigning champions after winning all seven of their Scottish Premiership matches so far.
The top-of-the-table clash on Saturday afternoon promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both sides looking to maintain their unbeaten records. Rangers, meanwhile, trail five points behind the leading duo in third place.
Philippe Clement’s men have only lost once this season and are gearing up to face Kilmarnock away, following a 2-0 win over St Johnstone before the international break.
Speaking to The Press and Journal, Dodds outlined how important a win would be for Aberdeen:
“If Aberdeen win on Saturday then it would be a huge statement. It’s not the end of the season, the league’s done, or Aberdeen are going on to win the league, but it definitely lets people know Aberdeen are there to be reckoned with this season. It tells the league Aberdeen are ready to push hard at the top whether it is for the league or to finish ahead of Rangers.”
Dodds highlighted the magnitude of the challenge awaiting the Dons at Celtic Park:
“This is the ultimate test, you are playing the champions away from home. It’s a test for any team going to Celtic Park, whether it is a Scottish club or on a European night. I know they were hammered in Dortmund, but if you send any team to Celtic Park, it is a massive test.
“It will be a test for Aberdeen, but one they should embrace and go and enjoy the challenge. Aberdeen have lost heavily there a few times in the last couple of years, but I would hope the players go there knowing there is no pressure on them.
“Yes, teams are looking at them, and people are talking about whether they can keep it going. But I’d rather be going there in good form, full of belief, than struggling in a relegation battle at the bottom of the table.”
The Key to Aberdeen’s Success:
Dodds went on to praise Aberdeen’s style of play under Thelin, noting the tactical adjustments that have contributed to their impressive start.
“I’ve watched Aberdeen three times this season, and what stands out for me is the simple things they are doing, which has helped the team so much.
“There’s no doubt compared to last season, nothing has changed in terms of the full-backs—(Jack) MacKenzie and (Nicky) Devlin are still bombing forward whenever they can.”
Dodds explained that the improved defensive structure has been crucial:
“What has helped give the team a better base when the full-backs are attacking is the fact Graeme Shinnie and Sivert Heltne Nilsen both sit. It was just Shinnie last year, and they did lose a few goals as he was isolated at times.
“Nilsen is a huge help off the ball to Shinnie, but when they are in possession, Shinnie has more licence to push higher as he knows he has Nilsen there.”
Dodds believes that this tactical balance has allowed Aberdeen’s full-backs to attack with greater freedom, without leaving the defence as exposed as in previous campaigns:
“It’s allowed the Aberdeen full-backs to bomb at will but without the same risk of losing goals as they had last year.”
The Dons head to Glasgow in confident mood, knowing that a win would not only keep them level with Celtic but also send a message to the rest of the league that they are genuine contenders this season.