Leighton Clarkson reveals how Aberdeen’s previous trip to Dundee ignited a winning streak.
Aberdeen’s last Premiership defeat came almost six months ago at Dens Park, and the star midfielder understands how that setback, which put them at rock bottom, inspired their resurgence.
Leighton Clarkson is aware that Aberdeen faced Dundee in the Premiership when they were at their lowest point.
Following Neil Warnock’s departure, Peter Leven was charged with rescuing the Dons from relegation. However, they suffered a 1-0 defeat at Dens Park.
The Red Army turned against its own team, chanting “You’re not fit to wear the shirt” as the defeated players walked away.
They haven’t lost a Premier League game since clicking the reset button. They are presently on an 11-game winning streak, and their only defeat in the previous six months came on penalties in the Scottish Cup semi-final against Celtic.
The Dons, led by Jimmy Thelin, are aiming to make it 12-in-a-row at Dens Stadium, having not lost a league game in over six months.
Clarkson admitted: “We were on a terrible run, and it was only after that game that we realised we were in a relegation battle.” There were several nasty things spoken following the game.
The former Liverpool midfielder said that Leven helped them return to playing in a way that suited their team.
Clarkson remarked, “It was a difficult task he had. Everybody on the squad adores him, his personality, and the way he instructs. We appreciate the way he likes to play football, and it certainly benefited us in the previous few games.
“He released many players from their constraints. Instead of being anxious and going out and doing things, he made sure we did what we needed to do and played football the way we wanted to. That helped us all.
“That is what happens after three or four games when you get that winning momentum and you don’t have to fear anyone in this league.”
Clarkson understands that Leven helped establish the groundwork for Jimmy Thelin’s undefeated Aberdeen team to build upon.
The Aberdeen playmaker is not surprised that St Johnstone has identified the Dons’ first-team coach as a major managerial target.
Clarkson watched as he transformed Aberdeen’s prosperity. He added, “You could say that (he helped lay the groundwork).” He has assisted the manager, and the fact that he has remained on the coaching staff is a huge benefit for us all.”
Aberdeen failed to beat Dundee in all three meetings last season, which the midfielder is eager to remedy.
He admitted: “I don’t believe we beat them last season. They have an excellent team setup. They have several talented players that we should be mindful of.
“At the same time, we are heading there with confidence. Hopefully, if we play our game, we will get a nice outcome.”
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Clarkson will confront an old familiar face tomorrow. Billy Koumetio, with whom he had played at Liverpool, now plays for Dundee. The Aberdeen star also persuaded him to make the summer transfer to Dens Park.
The playmaker explained: “Billy is a guy I know very well. I’ve been playing with him at Liverpool since I was 16.
“He’s a good centre half. I understand the characteristics he can provide. When he came up here, I stated that he was going to play football, and the Scottish game is a good fit for English ability.”
Duk has returned to the squad, and Thelin has one or two minor injuries that he will monitor before heading south.
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