“the performance was really good” – Glen Whelan on their 1-1 draw with Partick Thistle
Glen Whelan expressed his feeling following their draw with the Jags, despite losing out on a bonus point in the penalty shootout. The two sides who will most likely to battling for the Championship title come the end of the season went head-to-head in the League Cup which ended in a 1-1 draw with Mark Wilson’s men gaining the extra point after winning 3-2 on pens. Despite not holding onto the one goal lead, the Livingston boss claimed he was not frustrated by the equaliser and penalty defeat. Whelan said: “Not frustration no, lots of positives going forward, it’s a little different because it’s not a league game we have to make some changes to protect some lads, to try and get them up to speed and get fitness in the legs. So, yeah one-nil up but I think it was, you know Partick had made a few attacking changes, we look over our shoulder and we have three or four young lads, it’s a little bit more difficult, but I think overall, I think the performance was really good, I think the chances we created were really good, so lots of positives.” With many new faces in the camp, Glen Whelan is very pleased with how is squad is coming together ahead of the new season in recent displays. He added: “Yeah, I think if you asked me that question four weeks ago where we would be and where we are now, I think you have to give loads of credit to the lads because they have taken the information on, they’re trying to play the right way, they’re trying to do things positive, it was a real positive performance today against a so called team that will be right up there this season. Whelan has been delighted on the performances by Tyrese Sinclair since arrival after scoring at Brechin last Tuesday and securing a man of the match against Partick Thistle. Whelan said: “Yeah, no definitely Tyrese, front three with [Stevie] May and Robbie [Muirhead] have been excellent for me since they have come in, Robbie [Muirhead] has carried a lot of the minutes because we have a lot of injuries in the attacking third, that we are still probably very lightened in that department and we have lost Lewis Smith in the last couple weeks so, yeah, no the lads have put in a right shift and obviously the goal the three of them created today was unbelievable going forward, so, yeah it’s all positive in that front and hopefully we will get another few in.
Dundee 4-2 Airdrie – Dundee Defeat Airdrie in Six-Goal Thriller
Dundee defeat League One Airdrie in the League Cup after a very entertaining game of football at Dens Park. Airdrie had a brilliant chance in the opening three minutes, triallist Taylor having his short miss target very narrowly and spun wide of goal. Joe Bevan instantly had a chance of his own, but his effort which was at a very tight angle smacked off the post as both side registered their first attempt. Airdrie fired ahead after 11 minutes, Mahon with a ball into the box which got congested which ended up with the ball hitting off Sharp and into the net to put Airdrie in front after an initial attempt by Taylor. Matt Yates had a big chance shortly, an attempt from very far out with Harry Sharp miles out of net but his strike going fairly well over the net. Drey Wright on 26 minutes made a darting and bright run goal bound and unleashed a tidy strike but well saved by the former Falkirk shot-stopper to deny and equaliser. Reilly equalised just after the half-hour mark after an outstanding strike from distance which found its way into the top right-hand corner to give Dundee one back. Finnigan had a chance to put Dundee ahead, a strike from just outside the box which fired just wide of target keeping the game level. Sam Fisher put the Diamonds back ahead with already, a goal of the season contender on his debut as the defender whipped a ball goal bound from miles out which looked like a cross and somehow, it found the top corner as Airdrie go into the break ahead. Into the second half, Dundee had a golden chance to draw level as new signing, Odutayo had the best chance but volleyed his effort past the post which he had to do much better and get it on target. Hamilton soon after had a chance, he took a strike outside the box but a low effort fired just wide of goal to keep Airdrie ahead. A minute on, Ethan Hamilton attempted almost the same type strike but this time, he managed to fire it past Jamie Sneddon as Dundee draw level for the second time. Kian Taylor had a great chance soon after, you could say he should’ve squared it sooner but he took on the strike himself which it fizzled just wide of goal. Dundee fired ahead after 73 minutes as Joe Bevan neatly struck a clean strike into the bottom right hand corner to give Dundee the lead. Dundee sealed it on 80 minutes following a corner into the box which saw a strong and powerful header by Ashley Hay to almost guarantee three points. Dundee begin the new campaign with a vital three points against a well organised Airdrie side as the Dees start their season on the front foot. Dundee: Sharp (5), Odutayo (6), Astley (7), O. Bevan (8), Wright (6), Finnigan (7), Hay (7), Reilly (7), J. Bevan (8), Jones (6), Hamilton (7). Substitutes: Murray (6), Donnelly (6), Crombie (6), Oosenbrugh (6). Airdrieonians: Sneddon (6), Ross (6), Fisher (7), Simpson (6), Mahon (7), Gallagher (7), Mebude (6), Yates (6), Easton (6), Lister (6), Taylor (7). Substitutes: Iserhienrhien (6), Walczak (6), Williams (6), Pickford (6).
From Relegation with Northampton to Aberdeen
Aberdeen have signed left-back Nesta Guinness-Walker on a two-year-deal after departing EFL side, Northampton Town. The 26-year-old came through the youth rank with both Chelsea and Tottenham playing as an attacking minded full-back. The left-back has a handful of spells at other English clubs such as AFC Wimbledon, Reading, Stevenage, Metropolitan Police and of course most recently Northampton Town. There has been a lot of talk surrounding their left sided defenders with Gyamfi picking up once again, another setback with Mitchell Frame being linked with moves to either Sweden or Poland after gaining valuable game time last campaign since signing from Celtic B. Jensen who can also play at left-back departed Pittodrie this week, joining Jimmy Thelin’s former side, Elfsborg. “I’m buzzing to be here,” said Nesta. “As soon as Aberdeen showed interest, I was keen to get the deal done. “I’m here to continue my development and, of course, help the team win games. “The Club has a rich history, the fans look amazing, and after speaking to the manager, the ambition here was clear. It is something I’m eager to be part of.” Nesta becomes signing number nine for Stephen Robinson as the Dons boss has full faith that his new signing has the right attributes for the upcoming campaign. He said: “Nesta brings real pace and energy down the side, and his experience will also help Emmanuel and Mitchel with their continued development. “He has played extensively in the English Championship and League One and was named Northampton’s Player of the Year last season. “He will need a few weeks to get up to speed, as his season finished earlier, but our team behind the scenes will create a tailored programme to help him integrate and be ready for action as quickly as possible.” Nesta will be in the squad ahead of Saturday’s final pre-season fixture away in Linfield ahead of their League Cup clashing away to Brora Rangers next Tuesday.
Jack Butland Completes Premier League Switch
Jack Butland has completed a move to newly promoted Premier League outfit, Hull City following the signing of Ivor Pandur from Hull. The Rangers number one signed back in 2023 from Crystal Palace making over 150 appearances for the Ibrox side, being the number one during his three-year spell in Govan. Butland brings wealth of experience back down south, having played for numerous other English clubs such as Birmingham City, Cheltenham Town, Stoke City, Barnsley, Leeds United, Derby County, Crystal Palace, Manchester United and of course, Rangers. The 33 year-old has made 447 career appearances, clinching 135 clean sheets as well as making 9 caps for the England National Team. Jack Butland last season played every single minute under Danny Rohl at Rangers, playing 55 times in the Scottish Premiership last campaign as he makes a move to the English top flight. Butland began his career Birmingham before having a long period at Stoke establishing himself as one of the best keepers in England at the time with having some big money moves on the cards but no move materialising as he made the move years later to Selhurst Park. Butland said: “I’m delighted it’s all sorted now and I’m really excited to be here. It’s a great challenge and a fantastic season to look forward to. The challenge is obvious but an exciting one. “The Premier League is the best league in the world and, personally, it’s a great opportunity to be on the biggest stage again. I believe it’s the level I’m capable of playing at, and I’ve done it before. “As a club, we’ve got a great challenge back in the Premier League, not just to stay in the league but to really enjoy it and do as well as we can. “The last few years playing at an incredible club like Rangers, somewhere I hold close to my heart, meant it had to be something really enticing to change that. “The European nights and all the experience I gained up in Scotland, and my experience prior to that, are going to set me up perfectly for the challenge ahead this year. “I’ve already had some chats with the goalie coach (Erbil Bozkurt); he seems like a great guy and I’ve heard great things about him, which is really important to my time here. “It can’t come quickly enough. I’m really looking forward to seeing the fans in a really exciting season for us as a club.”
Mark O’Hara returns to Ayrshire, where it all started
Kilmarnock have today signed Mark O’Hara from St Mirren as the midfielder returns to where his career begun. Mark O’Hara who made his professional debut at the age of 16 after coming through the ranks in Ayrshire has become a very well known face within Scottish Football also having spells with Dundee and Motherwell as well as small stints with Lincoln and Peterborough down south. The midfielder made 20 appearances on his first spell with Kilmarnock in 2012 which saw O’Hara make 88 appearances before moving across to Dens Park in 2016, spending two seasons in the City of Discovery before a very small spell in England. One season with Peterborough United then a spell with Lincoln before returning to Scotland to sign for Motherwell in 2019. He would go onto spend 3 years in Lanarkshire with the Steelmen making over 80 appearances in Amber and Claret before having a spell at his fourth Scottish outfit, St Mirren. The 30-year-old would go on to captain the buddies as well as secure three back-to-back top six finishes as well as taking St Mirren back to the European stage as well as winning the Scottish League Cup in 2025 in a 3-1 win over Celtic. Mark O’Hara is delighted to be back at where it all started and can’t wait to get going at Rugby Park. O’Hara said: “I’m delighted to be back, and it’s good to come back at this stage of my career when I’m a different player than when I left,” Mark told Killie TV upon his return to familiar surroundings. “This is the club that gave me my chance in football. I’m looking forward to a successful season ahead. “I needed a fresh challenge. The club’s in a good place, and having had conversations with the manager, and working for him before, I knew he was somebody I wanted to work for again and that he’ll get the best out of me. It’s nice to be able to give a bit back to the club that gave me an opportunity.” McCann added: “He’s an important signing for the team. As St Mirren’s captain, he brings leadership skills. We lost Brad [Lyons], who had been a big presence around here, so it’s important that we brought in another leader within the group. “Mark I know well from my time at Dundee, and he was absolutely brilliant for me. It was a long time ago, but he’s still got a lot to offer. He’s a homegrown player with a massive connection to the club, which I’m sure the fans will appreciate and enjoy him being back. “I think Mark has got so much more to offer. Last season maybe disrupted him with one or two injuries, but I feel I can get Mark back to how good he’s shown he can be.” O’Hara will wear the 5 jersey as well as most likely get given captain following their former captain, Brad Lyons departed for Aberdeen.
Premier Sports pundit and commentator joins Aberdeen
Premier Sports Pundit, Stephen Craigan has completed a move to join the backroom staff at Aberdeen as Stephen Robinson strengthens his coaching staff. Craigan, the former Northern Ireland captain makes the move to the Granite City bringing a high amount of experience from his playing days. The former midfielder made over 50 caps at International level for Northern Ireland as well as making over 300 appearances for Scottish Premiership side, Motherwell which included spells at both Partick Thistle and Scottish junior side, Blantyre Victoria during the early days of his career. The 49-year-old has a very small amount of managerial experience, taking caretaker charge of Motherwell on two separate occasions back in both 2009 and 2015. Stephen is known for his ability in developing players with Aberdeen boss, Stephen Robinson suggesting the appointment proves as a crucial step in the success of the first-team and in the future too. The Aberdeen boss said: “Stephen brings extensive playing and coaching experience, but just as importantly he has an outstanding track record of helping young players fulfil their potential. “We’ve identified the transition from Academy football into becoming an established first-team player as one of the most important stages in a player’s development. Too often, talented young players simply train with the first team and are expected to improve naturally. “Our ambition is to be much more deliberate than that. Stephen will work closely with our most promising young players on an individual basis, ensuring every aspect of their technical, tactical, physical and mental development is planned, monitored and challenged. “He’ll be an important link between our development group and the first team, helping create a pathway while giving our young players the very best opportunity to establish themselves at Aberdeen. “I’ve worked with Stephen twice before and know exactly the qualities he’ll bring. He’ll demand high standards every day, and he’ll help drive both the team’s success and the development of players who can make a real impact for this football club.” Stephen Craigan can’t wait to get started as he looks ahead to the future of developing players at Pittodrie. He said: “I’m delighted to join Aberdeen. The opportunity to come to a Club of this size was one I was incredibly excited about and I’m looking forward to supporting the staff and players. “There is a real sense of excitement around the place ahead of the new season and I’m looking forward to playing my part as we all work towards delivering success. “One of the biggest attractions of this role was the opportunity to work closely with the Club’s best young players. That’s an area I’ve always enjoyed and where I believe I’ve done some of my best work. “Every player develops differently. My role is to make sure our highest-potential players receive the individual support, challenge and guidance they need alongside their first-team training to maximise that potential. “That means looking at every aspect of their game and building tailored development plans that give them the best possible chance of succeeding. “Ultimately, if we can help more young players establish themselves in Aberdeen’s first team, contribute to winning matches and go on to enjoy successful careers, then we’ll have done our job.”
Chris Mochrie returns to the Premiership, joining St Mirren
Former Dundee United man, Chris Mochrie has today signed a two-year-deal with the possibility of a further extra year, joining St Mirren. The midfielder started his career, coming through the ranks at Tannadice with a few first team appearances before a loan spell at Montrose which saw him get given some big opportunities in the senior squad at Tannadice. The Scotland U19 International would then have a loan spell with Dunfermline in the Championship, making 36 appearances for the Pars’ with two goals and two assists for his side before having a good campaign in the Championship with United. As United went up, Mochrie’s time at Tannadice was up, joining Airdrieonians, spending two seasons with the diamonds. Chris went on to become a first team regular being one of the better players, making just over 85 appearances for Airdrie in the Championship as well as netting 17 goals with 7 assists to his name. With Airdrie falling short in the play-offs, which saw the Diamonds, Mochrie departed to chase a new chapter, with St Mirren coming calling in an offer which is too good to turn down. The 23-year-old can play up top as well as behind the striker in the attacking role in which will most likely to play as an impact sub. Speaking to his new club, Chris said: “I’m buzzing, really excited to get going. “I met with the manager and everything he was saying was aligned with the way I think. It was a pretty easy decision from there on in and I’m delighted that’s happened. “The last couple of years have been massive for me. Going to Airdrie and getting a lot of games has really helped me and hopefully I can bring that experience here and show what I can do.” Manager Craig McLeish added: “Chris is someone that I’ve known since he was really young, coming through the performance schools and the youth national team squads. “He was always a player that I really enjoyed watching, loved how he moved with the ball so effortlessly. I really liked watching him play as he was coming through the system, then he broke into Dundee United quite early. “He handles the ball really well and he gives us a threat at the top end of the pitch. He’s a really honest boy that works hard and just needs a platform now to then go and try to get to the next level again. “He’s one that we feel can go and play at an even higher level and hopefully we can give him the platform to do that.”
Aberdeen FC key dates for 26/27
After the 2026/27 fixtures being released this afternoon, here are some key dates as the Dons’ set their sights on top six once again. The First Five: Aberdeen v Hearts – The Dons’ open their season at home to Hearts who spent most of last season at the top, although the Jambos have lost many of their star players as well as gaffer, McInnes. Hearts have had a tough time at Pittodrie, not winning in the Granite City since 2016 as they prepare to fight towards the title once again. Dundee v Aberdeen – Aberdeen make the short trip down the A9 to face Dundee at Dens Park. Aberdeen have lost their last two against the Dee with Aberdeen last meeting the Dens Park side being on the final day of last season in a 3-2 defeat for Aberdeen. Motherwell v Aberdeen – The Dons make the long journey down to Fir Park to face the Steelmen – a side who they haven’t had the best of times against. Aberdeen haven’t won at the home for the Steelmen in two years. Aberdeen v Rangers – The Dons and Rangers meet again as Aberdeen go up against former boss, Derek McInnes as he looks to get off to the perfect start under the Ibrox side. It’s always an exciting match between the two sides as a feisty encounter awaits on matchday four. Celtic v Aberdeen – Aberdeen head to East End Glasgow to face the Champions, Celtic who they have a horrid record against, despite winning the 2025 Scottish Cup against Celtic but in the league, they haven’t defeated the Glasgow side since 2017, a Considine strike to grab second on the final day. Halloween classic Aberdeen are in for a very tasty clash on Halloween as they make the spooky trip to Govan to face Rangers at Ibrox. Another very exciting meeting in store as the Dons will be eager to haunt Rangers and McInnes in Glasgow. Festive Period Six-days before Christmas, Aberdeen take on Celtic at Pittodrie as they look to end their horror record at home to Celtic before they make the boxing day trip to Perth to take on newly promoted St Johnstone at McDiarmid Park. As the year comes to a close, Aberdeen will welcome Motherwell to Pittodrie as they look to end the year on a high ahead of a new year trip to Paisley as Stephen Robinson meets his former side. Final Day before the split A day which may be crucial, Aberdeen host Kilmarnock which may be very important as they look to grab a top six spot and regain their European status for the following campaign.
St Johnstone sign Spanish winger
St Johnstone have announced the signing of forward Unax Álvarez de Eulate. The exciting 24-year-old winger joins on a two-year-deal from Spanish third tier side CD Guadalajara, where he scored 18 goals in 67 matches. Unax on signing for St Johnstone: “When I saw the club and its history, I felt that this would be a nice place for me to play. I have not played out of Spain, but I know this league will be a good level with good fans. “I’m always trying to improve and to do my best. I will always give my best to keep getting better. “Technically, I feel I am good and I always like to have a good connection with my team-mates. That is very important to me. I’m a fast player and of course like to score goals. “I look forward to getting out on the pitch in front of the fans and seeing how they get behind the team. I want to meet them all as soon as possible.”
From the USA, to Aberdeen: Connor Ronan joins the Dons!
Aberdeen this afternoon announced the signing of Connor Ronan on a two-year-deal with an option of a further year. The midfielder joins from American side Colorado Rapids which is the sixth summer signing for Stephen Robinson as the Dons boss re-unites with his former St Mirren star. The midfielder started his career on the youth ranks in England, coming through at Wolves, making 13 appearances before having short stints at the likes of Portsmouth, Walsall, Blackpool, Grasshoppers and Slovakian side, DAC 1904 Dunajska Streda before a loan spell at St Mirren where he was managed under current Aberdeen boss, Stephen Robinson. Ronan was a star player in Paisley, making 30 appearances for the Buddies with 8 goals and 5 assists for St Mirren in 2021 being a standout at the SMiSA Stadium. After his time with Wolves, failing to become a regular starter the Ireland U21 International made the move all the way to the US, spending four-year with Colorado Rapids becoming a regular starter for the MLS side. Ronan this season has been limited to just six games where a move to Pittodrie is next up for the 28-year-old. Manager Stephen Robinson said: “We’re delighted to bring Connor to Aberdeen. “He is a player I know from his time in Scotland and someone whose qualities we have admired for a number of years. “He’s a creative player who will bring valuable experience to our midfield. He has a strong work ethic, can score goals and has clearly matured during his time in MLS. “Just as importantly, he has the character and professionalism that we want within the squad. We’re looking forward to working with him and seeing the impact he can make.” New signing, Connor Ronan said: “It’s great to be here. I’m delighted to have everything finalised and can’t wait to get started. “From the first conversations I had with the manager, it was clear what the Club is trying to build and where I fit into those plans. “I’ve also worked with Stephen before, and I know exactly what he’ll expect from me. That was a really important factor. “Aberdeen is a huge football club with big ambitions and that’s difficult to turn down. I want to be part of helping the Club compete at the top end of the table, return to Europe and challenge for trophies. “From a personal point of view, I want to contribute goals, assists and strong performances, but above all else I want to help the team be successful. That’s what matters most.” Ronan will join up with his new team mates as they continue pre-season work, in the build up to next weeks friendly away to Cove Rangers.