Scottish Cup hero Alfie Dorrington will be returning to Aberdeen on loan for the 2025/26 season.

The 20-year-old central defender returns to the Granite City from Tottenham Hotspur eager to build on his impressive loan spell during the latter part of last season where he made 17 appearances for the club, including at Hampden in May, where he played a vital role in the historic win.

An England under-19 international, the pacey centre-back quicky established himself as a key figure in the Dons defence and Manager Jimmy Thelin is delighted to have Alfie back in his plans.

He said: “We’re pleased Alfie has returned to the club. He played an important part in the squad in the second half of the season and with the campaign ahead we will need strength in depth to be competitive across all competitions.

“Alfie settled well and made a real contribution so it’s always pleasing when a player shows a strong desire to be at the club. He recognised this is a good opportunity for him to be playing his football at a high level and in a good environment where he can continue to develop.

“We look forward to working with him again and we thank our colleagues at Tottenham Hotspur for trusting us with the next part of his career.”

Alfie completed his paperwork in London last night and surprised the squad as they prepared for a closed-door match in the capital this afternoon.

“I’m buzzing to be back”, said Alfie.

“I had six months here last season, and it was the best six months of my footballing life; winning the cup, playing lots of games, gaining new experiences. As soon as I heard Aberdeen had come back in for me it was a no brainer, I just wanted to meet the team straight away.

“It was nice to get a warm reception from the boys and the staff and feel welcomed back by everyone. It will always have a special place in my heart. I just loved it here. When the season ended I felt like I wanted to more, so that’s why I’ve come back.

“Winning the cup was the best two days of my life. It’s all a bit of a blur to be honest. The parade just highlighted the support behind the team and how much the city cares and supports us.

“The fans here are amazing, the atmosphere, the belief they have in us so to get the chance to play in front of them again, especially on European nights will be so good. I can’t wait to get started.”