Aberdeen's Kristers Tobers is sidelined, but the team remains optimistic for the cup match.
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Aberdeen Football Club is gearing up for a crucial Scottish Cup quarter-final against Queen’s Park, but the team is grappling with significant injury setbacks. The absence of center-back Kristers Tobers, who has been ruled out due to injury, poses a challenge for manager Jimmy Thelin as they aim for a semi-final spot.
Injury updates on key players
Latvian international defender Kristers Tobers sustained an injury during the first half of the recent 2-2 draw against Dundee United. This marks the second consecutive match where Tobers has been affected by injury, having also been substituted early in a previous match against Celtic.
Thelin confirmed that Tobers is currently under assessment by the club’s medical staff, and while the situation is still developing, it is unlikely he will be fit for the upcoming match.
Thelin stated, “Kristers is still working with the medical staff and tomorrow is too soon. Let’s see for the next week and the next game, but tomorrow would be difficult.” The club is hopeful for a clearer understanding of Tobers’ condition in the coming days, as they prepare for the cup clash.
Returning players boost squad morale
Despite the setback with Tobers, there is a silver lining for Aberdeen as defender Jack Milne and striker Ester Sokler are set to return from their respective injuries. Milne has been out for ten weeks following ankle surgery, while Sokler has been sidelined since early January due to a hamstring issue. The return of these players is a welcome boost for Thelin, who expressed optimism about their availability for the Scottish Cup match.
Thelin remarked, “Ester and Jack are available now to be in the squad. It’s great having them back.” Their inclusion could prove vital as Aberdeen seeks to navigate the challenges posed by Queen’s Park, who recently pulled off a stunning upset by defeating Rangers in the previous round.
Aberdeen’s quest for cup glory
Aberdeen is on a mission to end a 35-year wait for Scottish Cup glory, with their last triumph dating back to 1990. Thelin acknowledges the significance of the cup to the club’s supporters and emphasizes the need for his players to rise to the occasion. “The cup is important for so many people. You have to win and there are no other options. It’s a good pressure,” he stated.
As they prepare to face Queen’s Park, Thelin has urged his players to be sharp and ready from the start. He noted the potential for surprises in cup competitions, highlighting the importance of respecting their opponents. “Cup games are really intense and can come down to small margins,” he added. With the stakes high, Aberdeen must harness their experience and talent to secure a place in the semi-finals.
In light of their recent performance, where they had to rally from a two-goal deficit against Dundee United, Thelin is keen to ensure that his team starts strong against Queen’s Park. “We need to improve at home this start of the game and that’s what we focus on against Queen’s Park,” he concluded. As the Dons prepare for this pivotal match, the blend of returning players and the urgency to perform could make all the difference in their Scottish Cup journey.
