AUSTIN’S POWERS
Kenny tips Samuels to shine under Dons strike coach Allan
AUSTIN SAMUELS has been backed to make the grade at Aberdeen – with a little extra tuition from Dons assistant Allan Russell.
The Wolves striker, 20, has agreed a loan switch to Pittodrie that could become permanent.
And Kenny Black – who worked with the forward at Bradford last season – reckons he should flourish under the guidance of another of his former players in Russell.
Black was assistant to Stuart McCall at the Bantams a year ago when they signed Samuels on loan from Molineux after he dumped them out of the EFL Trophy.
And he’s sure the Englishman will now prove a knockout at Pittodrie under Stephen Glass and
Russell. The pacy frontman will add another dimension to their attacking options alongside the physicality of Jay Emmanuel-Thomas and Christian Ramirez’s predatory instincts.
Black said: “We played Wolves U23s in the EFL Trophy and were looking for a striker that was prepared to run in behind.
“Austin scored the only goal that night and really impressed us.
“He’s a little striker that looks to run in behind defenders
but will also mix it up by taking part in the build-up.
“He has pace but will look to come short and link up play when needed.
“Then he has that burst of pace to get in behind.
“The physical side will be fine too. The Premiership in Scotland is similar in those terms to Leagues One and Two. Austin never shirked a challenge.
“You are judged on goals as a striker. We tried him a couple of times coming in off the left but I don’t think he’s a wideman. Austin likes to be in the centre, playing off a striker or in behind.
“He’s one who will work hard on his game in terms of doing extra after training.
“Allan will be great for him too. He’ll enjoy working with him because Austin always likes to do a bit extra on his finishing at the end of training – repetitive stuff, just drills hitting the back of the net to get his eye in.
“I remember Allan being the exact same as a player when I had him at Airdrie.
“It’ll be interesting to see how he does at Aberdeen.”
Samuels arrived at Pittodrie at the start of a big week for the Dons, who face Qarabag tomorrow night in their Europa Conference League play-off second leg.
Manager Glass said: “We are delighted to add Austin to the group. He offers great pace, energy and quality in the forward areas.
“We’re looking forward to seeing him impact the group as soon as possible.
“He has a great pedigree being a youth international and coming from a hugely respected club such as Wolves and it’s important to us we have the option to buy at the end as we continue to build the squad.”