The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
Dons go in with high fives and return of Jack
Captain’s tale: Omens good for Reds to make final
Aberdeen captain Ryan Jack is determined to recapture his fine earlyseason form after two months out with a knee injury.
Jack is back in the squad for today’s Betfred Cup semi-final against Morton at Hampden Park after returning to training this week.
The 24-year-old endured a difficult first season after succeeding Russell Anderson as captain as the consistency of his performances was disrupted due to a succession of injuries.
But Jack felt back to his best in some of the Europa League qualifying matches in the early part of the campaign and, after shaking off his latest setback, he wants to quickly return to form.
He said: “I’m delighted. It’s been a long journey to get back fit. I worked really hard in pre-season to make sure I was right because I knew it was going to be a tough test in Europe.
“I wanted to be as fit as I could and it was probably my best start to a season, so it was frustrating to get the injury when I did. But I’ve got good people around me who kept me upbeat.
“Last season was stopstart with niggly injuries on my hamstring and ankle, which were taking four to six weeks. I was continually working hard to get my fitness and sharpness back.
“That was behind me and I felt it was an excellent start to the season. Now I’m back, I want to return to that level.
“It’s important I recognise injuries are part of football. It’s a contact sport and there’s always a chance I can get injured. But it’s important I don’t get down and keep my head right for when I’m ready to return.”
Jack’s return to the squad comes on the back of a five-match winning streak for the Dons and the captain is not taking his place in the team for granted. He added: “I feel ready to play if needed but I don’t expect to walk straight back into the team.
“The form has been great and, as much as it’s been frustrating being out, I’ve been going to the home and away games and I’ve really enjoyed watching us playing some excellent stuff.
“We’ve got momentum and it’s great to see. There’s more competition for places and we all accept we’ve got a strong squad. Looking at our bench, anyone can see that.
“I might be the captain but I’ve still got to work hard and earn my place. When we sat down at the start of the season we talked about how success would not be achieved with just 11 players.
“No one is guaranteed a start.”
“It’s important I don’t get down and keep my head right for when I’m ready”