The 25-year-old winger looks to replicate past success in Scotland.
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Winger Jeppe Okkels is determined to recapture the best form of his career as he embarks on a loan spell at Aberdeen under the management of Jimmy Thelin. The 25-year-old, who has joined the Dons from Preston North End, previously thrived under Thelin at Elfsborg, where he honed his skills and showcased his talent in the Swedish Allsvenskan.
Reunion with a familiar face
Okkels’ journey to Aberdeen marks a significant chapter in his career. After a challenging stint at Utrecht and a less impactful period at Preston, the winger is eager to reunite with Thelin, who played a pivotal role in his development as a player.
During their time together at Elfsborg, Okkels flourished, contributing to the team’s success with 29 goals in 118 appearances. His impressive performance in Sweden earned him a move to Utrecht, but injuries hindered his progress.
Similarities in playing style
Reflecting on his time at Elfsborg, Okkels noted the similarities between Thelin’s approach there and his current tactics at Aberdeen. He expressed confidence in Thelin’s ability to replicate past successes, stating, “If he had success at Elfsborg doing what he does, then, of course, he will try to do the same here.” Okkels appreciates Thelin’s calm demeanor and focus on attacking football, which aligns with his own playing style. He believes that this familiarity will help him quickly adapt to the demands of Scottish football.
Focus on performance and future
As Okkels settles into his role at Pittodrie, he is keenly aware of the opportunity to make his loan deal permanent. He emphasized that his primary focus is on helping Aberdeen secure victories and rediscovering the form that made him a standout player in Sweden. “It will depend a lot on how things will go,” he remarked, indicating that his performance will dictate the club’s decision regarding a permanent transfer.
With a Scottish Cup quarter-final against Queen’s Park on the horizon, Okkels is eager to contribute to the team’s success. He has already made nine appearances since joining Aberdeen and is determined to make a significant impact. His recent disallowed goal against Kilmarnock serves as motivation, as he aims to find the back of the net and help his team advance in the competition.
In conclusion, Jeppe Okkels is poised to make a mark at Aberdeen, driven by the desire to replicate his past successes under Jimmy Thelin. With the right mindset and support from his manager, he is ready to embrace this new challenge and contribute to the club’s ambitions.
