Jack predicts great 2017 for Dons

Aberdeen captain Ryan Jack believes his players are ready to make 2017 a year to remember for the Dons support.

After returning from their mid-season training break in Dubai, the Dons are back in action against Stranraer in the fourth round of the Scottish Cup at Pittodrie this weekend.

It will be Aberdeen’s first competitive game since ending 2016 in fine style with a 1-0 victory against Hearts thanks to a second-half winner from Jonny Hayes.

The Dons ended the year in impressive form with consecutive victories against Motherwell, Hamilton and the Jambos and Jack is eager for his side to continue to keep the run going.

He said: “After losing against Ross County, the players were determined to win our final three games of 2016 to go into the break on the right note.

“We want to do as well as we can in the league and we have the Scottish Cup to look forward to as well, so this is an exciting time. There is a lot to look forward to this year. We want to finish as high up the league table as we can and go on a good run in the Scottish Cup.

“Hopefully, after the way we ended last year we can go on to have a good 2017.”

Boss Derek McInnes has warned his players they could pay a heavy price if they underestimate League One side Stranraer, who parted company with their manager Brian Reid on Monday night.

He said: “I think on paper a home tie against a League One team seems simplistic enough but we all know that there will be shocks in the cup.”

Ryan Jack, right, with Shay Logan after arriving back at Glasgow Airport after their winter break in Dubai.