Aberdeen manager emphasizes focus amid Hibernian’s struggles

Aberdeen's Jimmy Thelin urges his team to stay sharp despite Hibernian's low ranking.

In the world of football, perceptions can often be misleading, especially when it comes to league standings. Aberdeen manager Jimmy Thelin is acutely aware of this as his team prepares to face Hibernian, who currently sit at the bottom of the Scottish Premiership. With only one win from their first 13 matches, Hibernian’s struggles are evident, yet Thelin insists that his side must not be lulled into a false sense of security.

Understanding Hibernian’s potential

Thelin acknowledges the pressure Hibernian faces but emphasizes the importance of recognizing the quality within their squad. “You see the quality of the individual players, how they can be one against one. They are at a really high level,” he stated. This insight reflects a broader understanding that even teams at the bottom of the table can possess talent capable of turning a game around. Thelin’s approach is to focus on his team’s performance rather than Hibernian’s current predicament.

Lessons from past experiences

Reflecting on the unpredictability of football, Thelin draws parallels to his experiences in Sweden, where even historically strong clubs can find themselves in difficult periods. “It happens also in Sweden sometimes. We have some clubs there that have been really big clubs, but you get in this (poor) period and then how you get out of them is the most important thing,” he explained. This perspective highlights the cyclical nature of football, where fortunes can change rapidly, and resilience is key.

Focusing on the task at hand

As Aberdeen looks to bounce back from their recent defeat to St Mirren, Thelin stresses the need for his players to remain sharp and focused. “I think it is better to focus on what we can do. I don’t know how they are going to prepare themselves… maybe they use this run to also try to be better,” he remarked. This mindset is crucial for maintaining performance levels and ensuring that the team does not underestimate their opponents, regardless of their current form.

Thelin’s comments also reflect a broader understanding of the pressures faced by managers in the league. He expressed sympathy for Hibernian’s David Gray, recognizing the human element in football management. “It’s always difficult when things get tough, but hopefully I’m sure he has a good team surrounding him and focus on the right things,” he said. This acknowledgment of the challenges faced by fellow managers underscores the camaraderie that exists within the sport, even amidst fierce competition.

As the Dons prepare for their clash with Hibernian, Thelin’s insights serve as a reminder that in football, every match is an opportunity, and underestimating an opponent can lead to unexpected consequences. With both teams eager to secure points, the upcoming fixture promises to be a compelling encounter.