SHINNIE SEES FERGUSON AS AN ABERDEEN VETERAN

SUCH is the upward trajectory of Lewis Ferguson’s career that it is difficult to come to terms with the fact it is only just over a year since he was handed his senior debut at Hamilton Accies. January 20, 2018 was the date. A Scottish Cup loss to local rivals Motherwell at Fir Park the occasion. To say that the 19-year-old has taken the ball and ran with it since would be quite the understatement. A summer transfer to Aberdeen has been taken in his stride to the extent that the Pittodrie club have now moved to protect their position by giving him a two-year contract extension until 2024. They know they have an asset on their hands that is already attracting attention from England. The deal should be signed and completed within a matter of days. Captain Graeme Shinnie insists Ferguson (right) looks like he has been a fixture of the Dons midfield for years, but his admiration for his new team-mate is not just based on the mental strength that has allowed him to handle increased expectations after heading north in a deal worth an estimated £175,000. It is Ferguson’s physical strength that has left perhaps the biggest impression. Released by Rangers at 14, he has grown into some specimen and that carries its own currency in the modern game. ‘At that age, people are still developing and getting experience and whatever else, but when you’re as physically developed as Fergie, it always gives you that added extra to go and slot in like he has,’ said Shinnie. ‘Against some of the strongest players in the league, he sort of brushes them off. I would certainly have paid good money to have his physique when I was his age. His new deal is good news for the club. ‘Lewis has been a breath of fresh air for such a young boy. ‘He’s come into a big club in Aberdeen from Hamilton and to control it the way he has and show his maturity has been really good. ‘I don’t think I was fully aware of what he had ability-wise and his maturity and composure. Credit to him — he looks like he has been playing here for years.’