Ross Doohan seizes opportunity as Aberdeen’s goalkeeper amid injury woes

With Mitov sidelined, Doohan looks to make his mark in the Premiership.

In the world of professional football, opportunities can arise unexpectedly, and for Ross Doohan, this moment has come at a crucial time for Aberdeen FC. With Bulgarian international Dimitar Mitov sidelined for six weeks due to a hamstring injury, Doohan is determined to make the most of his chance to shine as the club’s number one goalkeeper.

Doohan’s journey to the starting position

Doohan, who previously played for clubs like Celtic, Ross County, and Dundee United, was thrust into the spotlight during a challenging match against Celtic. After Mitov’s injury during the 1-1 draw at Hearts, Doohan stepped in at halftime, marking his first start of the season in a tough 1-0 loss to the reigning champions.

Despite the disappointment of entering the team under such circumstances, Doohan is focused on proving his worth.

Embracing the challenge

“It is a chance to go out to show what I can do and hopefully cement a place in the team,” Doohan stated, reflecting on his opportunity. He emphasized the importance of hard work in training and the need to catch the manager’s attention. The camaraderie between him and Mitov has been supportive, with both goalkeepers understanding the nature of competition in football.

Doohan’s resilience was tested early in his match against Celtic when he suffered a blow to the face from Kyogo Furuhashi. After receiving treatment, he composed himself and continued to play, showcasing his determination to put his body on the line for the team. “You need to put your body on the line to try and get the ball,” he remarked, demonstrating his commitment to the game.

Looking ahead to the future

Having joined Aberdeen from Forest Green Rovers last summer, Doohan has had limited opportunities, starting only four games in 18 months. However, his performance against Celtic, including a remarkable diving save from an Adam Idah header, has given him confidence moving forward. “I just need to look forward to the game on Saturday,” he said, as Aberdeen prepares to face St Johnstone at Pittodrie.

Aberdeen’s recent form has been a concern, with only two points from their last four Premiership matches after a strong start to the season. Doohan recognizes the need for the team to regain momentum, stating, “At a club like Aberdeen, you need to win every game.” His belief in the team’s spirit and hard work on the training pitch reflects a positive outlook as they aim to end their winless streak.

As Doohan steps into the role of starting goalkeeper, he carries the hopes of the fans and the team on his shoulders. With determination and skill, he is ready to embrace this challenge and prove himself as a vital asset to Aberdeen FC.