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“We are all feeling good. Confidence is high. We are looking forward to it. It is a game we all want to be involved in. The reason we tried to do so well in the league last year was to be involved in games like this.

“The boys are looking forward to the game.

“It is a massive game for us. It is the next game. It is all we are thinking about and not the season ahead. We would love to get the result and get through. We know it is a big task for us. They showed that they are a good team at Pittodrie and we know we have a big job to do over here.

“The game last week, the first competitive game is the one that gets you right back into it. We had three pre-season games but I think the pre-season games are different to the competitive matches. We should feel a lot fitter and the team is also getting to know each other.

“As I say it is a big job for us but one I know we can do.

“The news about the manager signing a new contract this week has given everyone a lift. You can see how much the management team mean to the supporters and the whole club. For them to sign an extension is another boost. A timely one as well ahead of the game.

“There have been big changes this summer to the squad. The past few seasons I have been here there has not been a lot of players leaving and new boys coming in like there has been this summer. I think the strength of the squad is just as good if not better. It is naturally going to take time to get to know each other and to gel. I actually think the guys who have come in have settled into the team very well. It is a good dressing room to come into.

“It is a strong squad so it is now just about getting to know each other’s games.

“No matter where we go we know that there will always be Aberdeen fans. There are fans sitting outside the door now as I was coming into the stadium this evening. It is good to know they will be there in numbers. Although they will be outnumbered you will still be able to hear them and we really appreciate their support. We want to do well for them as well.”

“No matter where we go we know that there will always be Aberdeen fans. There are fans sitting outside the door now as I was coming into the stadium this evening. It is good to know they will be there in numbers. Although they will be outnumbered you will still be able to hear them and we really appreciate their support. We want to do well for them as well.”