Aberdeen

Tyrone Smith
BBC Sport Scotland Senior Reporter

Image source, SNS

Jimmy Thelin has been speaking to the media before Aberdeen host Dunfermline in the Scottish Cup on Sunday.

Here are the key lines from the Dons boss:

• Thelin says it was a "good window for us" after bringing in defender Mats Knoester and striker Oday Dabbagh on deadline day to take his January signings total to six.

• Konester should be available for the weekend, but clearance for Dabbagh is likely to take a bit longer.

• On his comments last weekend that the players weren't giving him enough, Thelin says: "I also belong to the group, it is not about them or me."

• On their dreadful form: "It is nothing to hide from, we know we have to do better", adding "No one is hiding or trying to find excuses."

• There has been a "a clear message" in his discussions with the squad this week and it is time to "move on and break the circle".

• Thelin says he is an "optimistic person" and points out: "We are still in the cup and can still get third, that has to be the focus instead of looking back."

• On the Dunfermline game: "We have to win, we know that." Thelin says the Pars are a good side, but highlights "we are a good team", just out of form.

• Team news: Dimitar Mitov still a couple of weeks away and Ester Sokler is out for another three to four weeks.

Jack Herrall
BBC Sport Scotland

Image source, Getty Images

On deadline day Aberdeen signed Palestine's record scorer Oday Dabbagh on loan from Charleroi in Belgium.

But who is the new striker tasked with getting the goals to return the Dons to winning ways amid the club's abject run?

Now 26 years old, the 6ft forward made his professional debut at age 16 in his home country with Hilal Al-Quds. He helped the club to three successive West Bank Premier League titles and was the division's top scorer in 2019 with a 16-goal haul.

Such prolific form earned Dabbagh a move to Kuwait, with stints at Al-Salmiya SC, Qadsia, Al-Yarmouk SC, and Al-Arabi SC, winning the 2020-21 league title with the latter and finishing the league's top scorer with 13 goals.

Europe beckoned next for the promising striker, joining Portuguese top-flight side Arouca, where he became the first homegrown Palestinian footballer to play in one of the continent's top five leagues.

Dabbagh scored 15 goals across 45 appearances in his debut campaign, however it was in his second season with the club that he really thrived, netting 11 in 21 games.

That brought plenty of praise but he didn't feature for the club during the final two months of the season, with a move to Belgian Pro League side Charleroi in the offing.

When his then manager Armando Evangelista was asked about the forward's exclusion with rumours of a move to Belgian swirling, he said: "These are consequences of the market."

Seven goals in 44 appearances followed in Belgium, with his contribution last term keeping Charleroi in the league after they slipped into the relegation play-off rounds. He has scored only once this season, a 90th-minute equaliser against Standard Liege in late November.

Dabbagh's international exploits, however, are the most notable of his career so far.

He has netted 16 goals in 45 caps, making him Palentine's record scorer, and whichever club he is at closely followed by fans of the national side.

Can Dabbagh be the man to turn Aberdeen's fortunes around, or will he succumb to their on-field struggles?

We asked for your thoughts on Aberdeen's transfer business after the window closed on Monday.

Here's what some of you said:

Grant: On the face of it, we've done good business by adding some needed depth in defence and hopefully a good striker which we've sorely needed all season. I would have liked to see another midfielder and attacker but it's at least a step in the right direction.

Graham: They have brought in players that the supporters don't know, so fingers crossed they are what we need to get out of the current predicament. It's a case of watch this space.

William: I appreciate the club are operating a player trading model, but our scouting seems to cover every country except Scotland. We're filling a squad with players from abroad with fancy names but no experience of the Scottish game. Surely there is Scottish or British talent out there that can enhance our squad as well?

Darren: There are no doubts that the board have backed Jimmy Thelin in this window, and hopefully the new additions will kickstart a much-needed resurgence in form. Correct decisions also made with the players who have departed the club. All in all a very good transfer window. The optimism grows!

Andrew: Kristers Tobers, Alexander Jensen and Jeppe Okkels look promising. We have to hope these new players can handle Thelin's system better than the current squad. Playing out is for high-calibre teams. Without enough quality it is self-defeating. We now have about six central defenders and must hope at least one pair can get an understanding and stay fit. The midfield looks light.

Fred: I hope the excellent signings deliver in time to save our season. I was disappointed that we did not significantly strengthen the midfield. I hope the new players give there all and set a strong example.

Beefy: Time will tell how the new signings settle into Thelin's style of play. I expect they are fitter and more committed than those they are replacing - but that wouldn't be difficult! Tobers is a great player. I like Jensen but don't like seeing him at left-back always checking on to his right foot. Our new striker looks promising too.

Liam McLeod
BBC Sport Scotland Commentator

When deciding what to write this week and having covered Aberdeen's latest morale-sapping defeat at a Hibernian side now within striking distance of a team that was once 23 clear of them, I felt it was time for a break from that rather than dip readers in more misery.

While the current incumbents of the red jersey tailspin towards the bottom six and, incredibly, something far worse, another handful of legends were inducted into the club's hall of fame last week.

Great pre-World War II goalscorer Matt Armstrong along with 1990 Scottish Cup heroes Brian Irvine, Charlie Nicholas and Hans Gillhaus were the latest to have the honour bestowed upon them.

The Dons won the cup double in 1989-90 at a time it was expected they wouldn't just challenge for major honours, but win them.

Irvine's decisive penalty in the shootout victory over Celtic 35 years ago remains Aberdeen's last Scottish Cup victory. At the time people would have scoffed at the suggestion they still wouldn't have won it again three-and-a-half decades later as they prepare to face Dunfermline on Sunday for a place in the quarter-finals.

You would struggle to find a nicer gentleman than Irvine, who had deputised for the injured Willie Miller for much of that season. He placed his spot-kick into the top right corner away from the grasp of Packie Bonner with some style and calmness when you consider the pressure he must have been under.

Irvine, who was signed by Alex Ferguson in 1985, was at the club for more than a decade and had a helping hand in ensuring the Dons avoided relegation in 1995.

In terms of signings, Nicholas arriving at Pittodrie in the New Year of 1988 is unlikely to be surpassed. This was as Hollywood as it gets for Aberdeen. Joining from Arsenal, the former Celtic forward was a proper star and his arrival lit up the post-Ferguson years.

Everyone knew Nicholas was returning to his boyhood club Celtic when he stepped up to take his penalty in that 1990 final against the team he would be part of shortly after, but he stuck it away like he was practising in his back garden. Ice cool.

Nicholas is on the record as stating he feels he shouldn't have left Aberdeen when he did and if he had hung around, perhaps that 1991 title would have gone their way rather than Rangers' on the final day.

Gillhaus' arrival two years after certainly pushed the Nicholas signing in terms of excitement. This was a Dutch international who had won the European Cup the year before, starting PSV Eindhoven's victory over Benfica in Stuttgart. It's unimaginable these days a club like Aberdeen could pull off that sort of coup.

The Dutchman scored twice in the first half of his debut, including a memorable overhead kick, against Dunfermline and followed it up with a superb winner against Rangers just a few days later. He too converted his penalty at Hampden.

As the current Dons side desperately try and get the engine running on their season, they could do worse than study the club's Hall of Fame list and see what it takes to become a Pittodrie legend.

Aberdeen manager Jimmy Thelin is already making plans for the summer transfer window. (Press and Journal - subscription), external

Read Wednesday's Scottish gossip

With the transfer window now closed, how do you feel about Aberdeen's January business?

Jimmy Thelin was a busy man, bringing in six new players to try to rectify the Dons' dismal run of form.

Deadline-day signing Mats Knoester joined fellow defenders Kristers Tobers and Alexander Jensen on a permanent deal.

Forward Oday Dabbagh also signed up last night on a loan deal, while Thelin secured the loan signatures of defender Alfie Dorrington and winger Jeppe Okkels earlier in the window.

Heading out the Pittodrie exit were winger Duk and defender Angus MacDonald, while James McGarry departed on loan.

So, are Aberdeen in better shape now to turn around their fortunes around or did they need strengthening elsewhere?

Have your say on Aberdeen's transfer business., external

Calum Wright
Fan writer

Jimmy Thelin's post-match comments on Saturday were concerning. He highlighted a lack of effort and responsibility among the players while commending the ever-faithful Red Army for their support.

My concern isn't for the manager, however. My concern is about the players. Around 2,000 Dons fans travelled down to the capital, having failed to see their team win in the league for a record-breaking, at the time, 13 games.

Yet, a performance as lacklustre as that awaited them, and the record reached 14.

For too long during this barren run of results, paying fans have seen a lack of responsibility on the park. The 2-0 defeat away to Hibernian was just the latest example and, seemingly, the performance that finally pushed the Swede's patience too far.

It isn't that these players lack quality. We know they are more than capable of performing in this league. We've seen it this season.

Aberdeen kept the ball well at Easter Road but were toothless in attack. In the first half especially, we continuously crossed the ball to an isolated Pape Habib Gueye as he was surrounded by Hibs defenders, waiting to clear their lines.

When the home side went forward, as was evident with their second goal, men in green were busting a gut to get in the box.

Earlier in the season, we saw plenty of this for ourselves and it paid dividends. How many times did we see, for example, Nicky Devlin pop up in the opposition area and cause havoc? The desire from the team to do that seems to have disappeared.

It appeared our opponents wanted it more. In 50-50 challenges, they made their presence felt and the Aberdeen players did not match them.

It wasn't long ago Hibs were in a similar situation to the one we are in now. Yet, they've turned it around. We can only hope Thelin's new additions and his latest home truths can lead to Aberdeen doing the same.

Calum Wright can be found at Red Tinted Glasses Podcast, external

Aberdeen had hoped to sign Lyall Cameron, 22, before the Dundee midfielder agreed a pre-contract summer move to Rangers. (Press and Journal - subscription), external

Read Tuesday's Scottish gossip

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Manager Jimmy Thelin is fully focused on "the players who can help drive Aberdeen towards their objectives" following Duk's departure.

The striker has joined La Liga side C. D. Leganes on a permanent deal, two-and-a-half years after his arrival at Pittodrie.

The 24-year-old scored 27 goals and provided 13 assists in 113 appearances for the north east club.

"Duk has spoken for some time about his desire to try and make the next step in his career," Thelin told club media, external.

"When that happens, I want to ensure all our focus is on the players who can drive Aberdeen towards our objectives.

"His attitude and application since September cannot be faulted and we thank him for his efforts, and of course, for his contribution to the Club over the last three years."

Image source, Getty Images

Jimmy Thelin believes new signing Oday Dabbagh will help Aberdeen get back to winning ways.

The Dons secured the striker's services on loan from Belgian Pro League side Charleroi until the end of the season, with an option to buy included in the deal.

Thelin's side are looking to end a 14-game winless run in the league when they travel to Dundee after this weekend's Scottish Cup game at home to Dunfermline.

"Oday is a clinical finisher who has an exceptional work ethic and his combative qualities will be a real asset for us," Thelin told club media.

"He has a strong personality, both on and off the pitch, and we believe he will be a positive addition, adding another dimension to our attacking options as we work to get back to winning ways."

Dabbagh commented on his move to Pittodrie, adding: "I am very happy to be joining AFC and look forward to meeting my teammates, the coaches and people around the club.

"I am looking forward to the challenge and I am hopeful that I will repay the trust everyone has shown in me with good performances for the team."

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Aberdeen defender Angus MacDonald has left Pittodrie to pursue opportunities elsewhere.

The 32-year-old joined the Dons on a short-term contract after leaving Swindon Town in the January 2023 transfer window.

The central defender made 50 appearances for Aberdeen in total and scored two goals - one of which came against HJK Helsinki in the Conference League, the other game in last season's Scottish Cup semi-final against Hampden.

"Angus is at the point in his career where he needs to play regularly and at this moment in time his opportunities here are limited," manager Jimmy Thelin told club media., external

"His contributions, both on and off the pitch, during his time at Aberdeen have been significant.

"We would like to wish Angus the best of luck with his future career and thank him for his effort and professionalism during his time here."

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Former Aberdeen and Dundee striker Billy Pirie has died at the age of 75.

Pirie signed for the Dons in 1974 after spells with South African side Arcadia Shepherds, Huntly and Arbroath, but it was at Dundee where he played his best football.

Having left Pittodrie for New York Apollos, Pirie signed for Dundee in 1976, and went on to score 106 goals in 138 games across four seasons at Dens Park, including 44 in a remarkable first campaign with the club.

He finished his career in Australia with APIA Leichhardt and Sydney Olympic.

On Dundee's club website, a tribute to Pirie reads: "Everyone at Dundee Football Club was extremely saddened to learn of the passing of former player Billy Pirie who passed away at the weekend.

"Billy is a member of the Dundee FC Hall of Fame after being inducted in 2016 and for many Dee supporters is remembered for the incredible amount of goals he scored during his time in dark blue.

"The thoughts of everyone at Dundee Football Club are with Billy's friends and family at this very sad time."

Aberdeen are trying to sign Palestine international Oday Dabbagh from Charleroi on a loan deal before the deadline. (Daily Record)

Read the rest of Monday's gossip.

Watch highlights of Hibs' 2-0 win against Aberdeen in the Scottish Premiership.

We asked for your views on Aberdeen's 2-0 defeat against Hibs.

Here's what some of you said:

Russell: Abject though the position is, we need to stick by Jimmy Thelin. He gave everyone a chance and it may be he's now seeing some of those he inherited aren't capable of fulfilling their roles. He's emphasised throughout that it will take time to get to where he wants the team to be.

Eric: Nice to see Jimmy at last get annoyed with his players. Plenty of possession in the game, but again no end result, dire defending and no leadership. Those not signing extensions need to be dropped completely. The fact no one came in for these players tells you everything. Play those committed to the club even if they are teens as it can't get any worse.

James: Same every week, waiting until we are goals down before going forward instead of backwards and getting the ball into the box and trying to score. Need to use our wingers to supply our strikers. Will be the same next week unless the manager tells the players to stop playing tippy tap football around our own half and inviting pressure.

John: I have a horrible feeling Jimmy has lost the dressing room. The players look like they have given up and are not performing for the fans, themselves and least of all the manager. Perfect example in the second half when Alexander Jensen put in a perfect ball and Kevin Nisbet duffed the chance big time. Relegation battle looks on the cards unfortunately.

Kevin: Is this the season we finally get relegated? We've been dicing with this over the past few years and it'll always get you in the end, I'm not blaming the manager, once the players are on the pitch it's up to them. The club is too soft.

Peter: Another week, another defeat. I feel like the players are just not giving their all. Ever since we got beat by Celtic our heads are down. I also think there are a few players who need to be moved on pronto.

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• Hibernian are undefeated in their last nine games in the Premiership, their last joint longest unbeaten streak was from 12 May 2021 to 26 September 2021.

• Aberdeen have lost their last three games in the Premiership, their last longer losing streak was from 21 December 2024 to 5 January 2025, a run of five games.

• Hibernian have scored in their last nine games in the Premiership, their longest scoring streak this season.

• Aberdeen have failed to score in their last five games in the Premiership, their last longer run of games without scoring a goal in the competition was a run of six games from 27 January 2021 to 17 February 2021.

Time could run out on Aberdeen's attempt to sign 21-year-old AC Milan striker Marko Lazetic on loan with an option to buy because of the red tape required to recall him from Backa Topola and secure a visa before the window closes on Monday. (Press & Journal), external

Aberdeen are not working on a deal for Maccabi Tel Aviv defender Tyrese Asante and the 22-year-old's agent has also made it clear he will not be moving in this window. (Daily Record), external

Read Sunday's Scottish Gossip in full.

Abject Aberdeen are now winless in 14 Scottish Premiership games as Hibernian continued their own revival with an ultimately comfortable win.

David Gray's side are now fifth, just two points behind their faltering visitors who somehow remain fourth thanks to their sensational early-season form.

Dons fans, what do you make of the result today? Give us your thoughts on the game here., external