Dons manager Jimmy Thelin spoke to the media at Cormack Park this afternoon ahead of tomorrow’s match against St Mirren at Pittodrie. RedTV subscribers can watch in full by clicking here.

“Our aim now is to be a more stable team. I think we can be more stable, and we’ve worked a lot this week to take the positive things from the cup game and focus on those aspects, doing them properly tomorrow.

“Some players are back in training, and the competition in training is stronger. The intensity is increasing, which is good for us. Everybody feels the competition inside the squad is strong, so everyone has to be at their limit to play in the games. We also have different characteristics to use against specific opponents also.

“I think, of course, for some players, it’s a boost. But even in good times, when we are in a good run, and also in hard times, the players are pushing. They really try hard, and we’ve been through a challenging time. But I think we’re getting stronger, we’re learning, and we’re improving. Hopefully, it can be a turning point. Some things that happens in games have been unstable, and the opponents have been skilful and scored at those moments – but I really see that the mistakes are decreasing, and that’s the best sign for us to push forward.

“We want to be a more aggressive attacking team. At times this season, we’ve been too slow in our build-up, and then we lose the power of our team. That’s why we’re trying to improve in that area.

“I think the best thing players can do is show up for every training session and give the best they can do. It’s always about performance. Duk played 90 minutes and did really well, he got some goals. Everyone’s happy about that, and it is good.

“Let’s see what’s happening. We’re always working with the squad. As I’ve told you before, we’re trying to do what’s best for every individual, which can be in both directions. We’ll keep working, and we’ll see how things develop. We want to keep balance in the squad and also keep working on the long term. We’ve been having good dialogues with our players about their futures, so let’s see what happens.

“It’s an important game. We’re playing at home, and I think it’s important to show ourselves, but also our supporters, that we can do something strong together in the game. We need to use that energy to take a step forward, and not hesitate, but be be more aggressive in our identity. This is a good moment for tomorrow.

“I think when you’re trying to change things, it can sometimes lead to setbacks. Plus, we’ve had players in and out due to injuries. But when you’re trying to improve, it can take a step backwards and then you take two steps forward. That’s why you have to be brave, have the the long-term process in your head, and stick to that even if you don’t get results in the moment. Of course, you always aim for results, you need to. But to achieve results in the long term, you have to improve your performance consistently. That’s what we’re aiming for, and we’re trying to build, with the intensity we train, and we get the rhythm and hopefully, we can show that tomorrow.

“Pape has specific characteristics in the way he plays. He’s a mobile forward, he can change positions, he’s always making runs into space, and he’s good at attacking the box. He’s another weapon for us to use on the pitch in a good way. He brings a lot of energy, wants to prove himself, and he’s been training well. We need to be careful and with him now to avoid any setbacks, but he will be ready to be inside the squad, I hope he will be ready to play some minutes again soon.

“Pape has been saying he is ready for the last three months! He’s ready. He’s a positive guy, and I like his energy. I like that players are pushing to show this ambition and help the team, and that’s a positive thing. He’s always giving positive energy. He’s laughing, working hard. I really like his character as a person.

“If you think about the preparation with three games in one week, it’s not easy, especially Krister Tobers, who played a lot of minutes. But he managed it really well. He understands how to manage his body and how to spare energy at times during the game. Alexander has also done really well, and Alfie is performing better and better in training, so it is good to have more players with good fitness levels and no injuries, which brings intensity to training and hopefully helps us in the games as well.

“Jamie is out for a couple of months due to his shoulder injury. Dante had a little setback from the last game; we’ll see how long he’ll be out. Otherwise, I think it’s fairly stable.

“Jamie is a great player for us. He’s multifunctional, he can play in different positions, and he always gives everything. That’s something we have to work on. These shoulder injuries, it is really bad luck. We have to stay positive and support him. It’s important that he gets back as soon as possible, but for now, we need to support the players who are available. They are positive guys, they are doing the best they can do.

“Dante had some small setbacks in his legs, so we’ll see how long it takes for him to recover.

“I think every point we play for for the rest of the season is important for us. It’s a tight table, and every opponent is strong. We need to be there and try to win, especially at home. That’s why we have to try and find a way back tomorrow. I think the manager and his team have done a good job. They’re very structured, and it’s clear how they want to play. They do it consistently, and they have strengths and also weaknesses. We’ll look to exploit the weaknesses but also manage their strengths in a better way, and go for the three points.

“I haven’t met Jimmy Calderwood personally, but he’s had a huge impact on the club, and that means a lot for a lot of people. I’m very sad for his family, and he’s always a  historic figure for the club. We always have to show respect for people like him. That’s really important.”