Aberdeen's captain emphasizes the importance of focusing on performance over title discussions.
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In the world of football, discussions about potential title challenges often arise prematurely, especially in the early months of the season. Aberdeen captain Graeme Shinnie recently expressed his views on this topic, labeling the chatter surrounding title aspirations as ‘madness.’ Following a disappointing 2-1 defeat to St Mirren, Shinnie emphasized the importance of maintaining focus on performance rather than getting swept up in external expectations.
Importance of focus in a long season
Shinnie pointed out that the season is still in its infancy, and the dynamics can shift dramatically within just a few matches. “People talk about title challenges in October and November – which is madness,” he stated.
The captain’s perspective highlights the unpredictability of football, where early-season form can quickly change. He urged his teammates to concentrate on their game and not let outside noise influence their mindset.
Handling pressure at Aberdeen
As a club with a rich history and high expectations, Aberdeen is no stranger to pressure. Shinnie acknowledged that discussions about the team’s ability to keep pace with champions Celtic are natural but insisted that such matters are beyond their control. “It’s about winning as many games as we can and picking up points,” he explained. The captain emphasized the need to build on their current position in the league and not lose sight of their goals.
Looking ahead to the next match
Despite the setback against St Mirren, Shinnie remains optimistic about the upcoming match against Hibernian. The Hibees are struggling at the bottom of the Premiership, but Shinnie is wary of underestimating them. “Hibs have had a lot of good performances but have lost a lot of late goals,” he noted. The captain stressed the importance of returning to their winning ways and focusing on their strengths. “We have had a great start to the season – we have to remember that,” he added, reinforcing the need to learn from their mistakes and improve.
As Aberdeen prepares for their next challenge, Shinnie’s leadership and focus on performance will be crucial in navigating the pressures of the season. The Dons aim to bounce back and continue their pursuit of success, keeping their eyes firmly on the pitch rather than the title talk swirling around them.
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