Jimmy Thelin has singled out Aberdeen right-back Nicky Devlin ahead of the Dons’ massive clash against Dundee United on Saturday.
Devlin has been in fantastic form for club and country this season having played a massive part in Aberdeen’s unbelievable start to the Premiership season.
He also did his bit for Scotland during the last international break as he made his debut – albeit a second-half cameo – against a star-studded Portugal.
Of course, Scotland earned a brilliant point as the game finished 0-0 and Devlin was brought on to help get the result and clean sheet over the line.
He thwarted Ronaldo and also made a fantastic block to deny winger Rafael Leao before returning to Aberdeen and helping the unbeaten side earn a tremendous point away to Celtic.
Thelin commends Aberdeen’s Nicky Devlin
Speaking ahead of Saturday teatime’s highly anticipated clash between Aberdeen and Dundee United, Thelin was keen to highlight Devlin’s growth as a player despite now being 31.
As quoted in The Press & Journal, Thelin said of Devlin: “He has made a fantastic journey during his career. I like it is never too late to improve and grow as a player.
“Everybody was so happy when he got this opportunity (for Scotland) and he got some minutes on the pitch. He made a really good block from the shot in the box.
“He also did some other good things, defending at the far post against (Cristiano) Ronaldo. It is good for him to get those minutes. Everyone is proud of his journey and really happy with that.”
Thelin steering clear of Aberdeen limelight
Thelin is a quiet and unassuming character having moved from his native Sweden to Aberdeen in the summer.
Understandably, he has become an instant hero amongst the Aberdeen support with the club unbeaten across all competitions heading into November and joint-top of the Premiership.
But he admits he’s not one to bask in the glory and revel in the team’s form with fans in the city because for him, it’s not all about what he has achieved.
Thelin said: “I am in my apartment and at Cormack Park – so I don’t know! It is not about me. It is about the feeling in the city and how we create something together. That is the most important thing.
“With the squad and the staff, we try to stay united and grow together – that is my connection with the people in the city.
“The people who work at the club are really proud of the city and Aberdeen Football Club.”