Aberdeen FC head into Saturday’s Premier Sports Cup clash with Kelty Hearts knowing a win is non-negotiable under Stephen Robinson.
What did the manager say?
Robinson met the media on Friday morning and made it clear every player must be match-fit for the 3pm kick-off at Pittodrie. “When you play for Aberdeen, you’ve got to win every single game,” he told reporters. “We set out to do that and we aim to do that on Saturday.” The Dons sit eighth in the Premiership with 33 points from 33 games last season, their recent form LLWDW leaving room for improvement.
Squad rotation and freshness
Robinson stressed the importance of squad rotation, insisting the entire group must be ready rather than relying on just 11 players. “If I take a look at everybody and we lose the game, I think there’s only one person who gets the blame,” he said. Changes will come, but they won’t be wholesale. The manager plans to keep the core XI intact and add fringe players who deserve their shot while ensuring everyone stays game-ready.
Focus on Saturday, not next week
The Hearts visit Pittodrie on Saturday, but Robinson has already turned his attention to the Premiership return next week. “The sole focus is this one,” he said. “It’s a different game and a different test.” He added that Aberdeen will likely control more of the ball than in league fixtures, urging the team to stay in the moment rather than look ahead.
Team news and injuries
Robinson confirmed striker Kenan Bilalovic will miss the game after picking up a back knock in training. Dan Happe suffered cramp on the artificial pitch on Wednesday, while Afeez Aremu played through a minor groin strain. All three are expected to feature despite the knocks. The squad will train lightly on Friday ahead of the cup tie.
Aberdeen FC sit 37 points behind Premiership leaders Heart Of Midlothian after last season’s 33 points from 33 games, with a goal difference of -15 (33 scored, 48 conceded).
