Aberdeen FC manager Stephen Robinson has told his squad they must lift the goal‑scoring burden off Kevin Nisbet as the club prepares for its Premiership return this weekend. Robinson’s warning comes after Nisbet’s six‑goal haul in four Premier Sports Cup games, but the Dons sit eighth in the league with 33 points, 9‑6‑18 from 33 matches and a recent LLWDW form.
Why is the goal burden on Nisbet a concern?
Robinson praised Nisbet’s six‑goal streak, noting the striker’s knack for finding space and finishing chances. Yet he warned that relying on one player is risky, especially with the team trailing the title race by 37 points behind leaders Heart of Midlothian. "We need goals from midfield and set‑plays," Robinson said, urging contributions from Toyosi Olusanya, Daniel Happe and others who have each netted once this season.
Which players can step up?
Beyond Nisbet, several Dons have already opened their accounts. Kjartan Kjartansson, the 20‑year‑old Icelandic forward, celebrated his first senior goal against Kelty Hearts, while Ayoub Moulou has been positioning himself well in the final third. Robinson highlighted the potential of young midfielder Conor Ronan, who is competing with former Scotland international Stuart Armstrong for a starting spot after Armstrong returned from nasal surgery.
How does the team’s recent form shape expectations?
Aberdeen’s defensive record this season shows 48 goals conceded, leaving a –15 goal difference, while the attack has produced 33 goals. The Dons’ recent cup success, including a win over Kelty Hearts, suggests they can translate that momentum into league points. Robinson believes the squad is “as prepared as we can be” for the upcoming clash with Hearts at Pittodrie, a match that could test whether the team can break the current LLWDW pattern.
What does this mean for the upcoming Premiership fixtures?
With the league campaign looming, Robinson’s demand for shared responsibility signals a shift in tactical focus. He expects the midfield to contribute more directly to scoring, and set‑piece routines to be refined. The manager also stressed the importance of confidence for young players like Kjartansson, who “has all the attributes” despite his age. If the Dons can diversify their goal sources, they may start narrowing the 37‑point gap to the leaders and climb higher than their eighth‑place finish.
Aberdeen FC’s next test will be against Hearts, a side that recently suffered a heavy defeat to Celtic. The outcome could set the tone for the Dons’ push to improve their league standing and revive ambitions of challenging at the top of the Scottish Premiership.
