Joe Lewis has encouraged Aberdeen to aim high and maintain their momentum, much like Leicester City did during their remarkable run.
Jimmy Thelin’s in-form Dons head to Celtic Park on Saturday, riding a 13-game winning streak. The impressive start by the Swedish manager has sparked discussions about whether Aberdeen might challenge the Old Firm this season.
Lewis, who played a key role when Aberdeen last won in Glasgow’s east end in May 2018, remarked: “A draw would definitely make Celtic and Rangers recognize us as a real threat. It might break our perfect record, but a draw at Celtic Park is a great outcome.
Tony Docherty commented on Dundee’s 3-0 defeat to Rangers in the Premier Sports Cup.
“I’m sure the manager and the squad would gladly take that result now. People are wondering: ‘Can we secure second place?’ But since we’ve won every game so far, anything is possible. Other teams may have a slump, and if we maintain our momentum, just look at what Leicester City accomplished. Everyone thought they’d falter midway through their season.
“But they kept going, all the way through the season. You just need to ride this wave of confidence and positivity. The team is thriving, and they’re entering the game with maximum confidence.
“That’s important because it’s been a long time since we’ve approached a match at Celtic Park with such high spirits. Celtic will likely respect Aberdeen more than before. The manager and the players have truly earned that respect. We’re determined to keep this momentum going.
“A win would be fantastic. It would definitely get more people to take notice if they haven’t already. There’s no reason the Dons can’t maintain this run because they’re proving themselves as a top side.”
In their last 10 visits to Celtic Park, Aberdeen have recorded nine losses and one draw, scoring just twice while conceding 24 goals. Despite this, Lewis believes there’s no need for concern based on the strength of this current Aberdeen side.
Having made 271 appearances during his seven years with Aberdeen, Lewis now watches from his home in Cheshire and is looking forward to working as a TV analyst for Aberdeen’s midweek game against Rangers at Pittodrie. Reflecting on his time with the club, Lewis said: “I have a lot of friends there, and the excitement around Aberdeen is incredible.
“I know how the city rallies behind the team during cup finals or when we’re performing well in the league. I’ve watched a good number of games. It’s great to see new players making an immediate impact. Losing Bojan Miovski had some people worried about goals, but they’ve come from all over.
“I’m especially happy to see a return to a back four, which gives the wingers more freedom to attack. It’s great to see the whole team thriving. And being a bit biased, I think Dimitar Mitov has been outstanding! He’s really showing his quality as a goalkeeper.
“With players being called up to the Scotland squad, like Nicky Devlin, Jack MacKenzie, and Kevin Nisbet, it’s clear that people are paying attention. Nisbet is a key player when playing at Celtic Park. He’s clinical—give him one chance, and he’ll take it.
“He’s got that goal-scoring instinct, and I always rated him highly when we played against each other. He’s bound to score many goals for us.
“You’d describe Nicky and Jack as dependable players, but they’re growing in confidence. Graeme Shinnie seems to be playing with less pressure now that Sivert Nilsen is alongside him. And our bench is strong—Duk returning with a point to prove is a big asset. Ante Palaversa looks like a top player, and Topi Keskinen adds creativity up front. We have threats across the pitch.”
Lewis faced many tough Celtic teams during Brendan Rodgers’ first stint as manager. He experienced a few heavy defeats at Parkhead, including two three-goal losses, and suffered a heartbreaking last-minute defeat in the 2017 Scottish Cup Final.
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