With the Scottish Cup Final just around the corner, we caught up with John Bleasdale – author of Scotland’s Swedish Adventure and We’re Going to Wembley: Scotland’s Euro 96 Journey, and contributor to the Scottish Football Forums podcast — to get his thoughts on Aberdeen’s season, the Cup Final, and his personal highlights as a passionate Dons supporter.
You’ve followed Aberdeen through the highs and lows for decades. What are some of your personal highlights supporting the Dons?
“I started supporting Aberdeen during the 1989/90 season and winning the Cup Double was a good way to start — I still can’t believe that’s the last time we won the Scottish Cup!
“The night we thrashed Copenhagen 4–0 is the standout moment so far. That was a special night at Pittodrie. The 2014 League Cup Final was another great memory. If somehow we win on Saturday, it would top even that!”
How do you reflect on Jimmy Thelin’s first season in charge at Aberdeen so far?
“If our results had been more spread out, it would be viewed as progressive, especially considering where we were last year.
“But we literally went from the sublime to the ridiculous by following up a club record start with a club record winless run in the league.
“Despite recent results, I still think we’re heading in the right direction – though this summer is going to be a crucial window.”
What are your thoughts ahead of the Scottish Cup Final?
“I’m under no illusion that we face a mammoth task. Our form going into the Cup Final doesn’t make great reading, and the fact a much-changed Celtic side thrashed us at Pittodrie adds to the negative vibes among our fan base right now.
“That said, stranger things have happened in football – look at Crystal Palace. We have to hold onto hope that we can catch Celtic on an off day and finally bring that trophy back to the Granite City.”
You’ve written two highly regarded books on the Scotland national team. How can fans follow your work and get their hands on a copy?
“You can get copies of my books from Amazon and Waterstones. If you’re after a signed copy, message me directly via social media.”
Follow John Bleasdale on Twitter or listen to him via the Scottish Football Forums Podcast for more insight, updates on his writing, and Scottish football chat.
Callum McFadden 