Sheerin backs youngsters to make breakthrough

Paul Sheerin is optimistic some of his Scottish Youth Cup finalists can break into Aberdeen’s first team.

The Dons under-20s face Hibernian in the national final at Hampden tonight and Sheerin speaks highly of the team spirit within the squad, which is fourth in the SPFL Development League.

Daniel Harvie and Dean Campbell have been around the first team this season, while Frank Ross – who could play a part tonight – has already scored for Derek McInnes’ side against Rangers.

With McInnes already plotting a turnover in the squad over the summer, there could be an opportunity for some of Sheerin’s squad to progress into senior football.

Under-20s coach Sheerin said: “We’re always hopeful (guys can make it). Dean (Campbell) has been in and around the squad and got on the bench in the semifinal.

“Bruce Anderson has been great this season, scoring regularly, and Seb Ross has been outstanding. Frank (Ross) has been out on loan at Morton and will be involved in the final at the same stage. We’re hopeful that they do make it. They have to push themselves to get there and it’s not always easy to have that patience to make a living in the game.

“Dean is the youngest debutant at the club when he came on against Celtic last season. He’s been slightly hampered by injury this season so to get him back on the pitch is massive for my squad. I see a good future for him in the game which is why I made him the captain as it’s usually the more experienced ones you pick. He has a mature and sensible head on his shoulders.”

The Dons lost to their cup final opponents 2-0 in the league last week, albeit against a team that featured several senior players, and his side is out to seize the silverware.

He added: “Everyone is itching to win it. It’s vital to get to the next stage, to breed that winning mentality early.”

Paul Sheerin: Everyone is itching to win it