Author name: Peter Knox

Co-Founder of Fitba Focus and MMA UK. A lifelong Aberdeen fan with years of experience in the sports media industry, Peter provides expert analysis and a dedicated "Dons" perspective on the Scottish game. He is passionate about giving a voice to fans across the entire Scottish football pyramid.

Aberdeen Football News

Aberdeen Fan Jailed After Throwing Seat That Seriously Injured Jack MacKenzie

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An Aberdeen supporter has been jailed for 18 months after throwing part of a stadium seat onto the pitch and seriously injuring footballer Jack MacKenzie. David Gowans, 31, carried out the attack following a Scottish Premiership match between Aberdeen FC and Dundee United FC at Tannadice Park on 17 May 2025. The incident occurred after the final whistle, as supporters entered the pitch following Dundee United’s 2–1 victory, a result that secured them fourth place in the Premiership and qualification for European competition. Gowans threw the broken seat from the stands, striking then Aberdeen defender Jack MacKenzie in the face. The impact caused a deep two-inch laceration to MacKenzie’s left eyebrow and a five-centimetre abrasion beneath his left eye, leaving him with permanent facial scarring. MacKenzie had gone to the area in front of the travelling Aberdeen supporters to applaud them for their backing when he was hit. The defender has since moved on from Aberdeen and now plays for Plymouth Argyle FC. Sentencing Gowans at Dundee Sheriff Court, Sheriff Alastair Carmichael condemned the actions in strong terms. “Your actions were selfish, stupid, dangerous and utterly irresponsible,” he said.“You must have known that by throwing this item, it could hit somebody. If you didn’t consider this possibility, the level of recklessness is staggering.” The case has renewed calls for tougher action against football-related violence, with authorities stressing that such behaviour has no place in the game.

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Craig Gordon makes stunning Hearts save to deny Dundee and keep Jambos at the top

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MATCH REPORT: Dundee FC 0–1 Heart of Midlothian FC 11 January 2026 | Dens Park Ten-man Hearts produced a resilient display at Dens Park to claim a vital three points, with Claudio Braga’s stunning first-half strike proving decisive on Tayside. The Portuguese forward opened the scoring midway through the first half with a superb long-range effort, but Hearts were forced to dig deep after goalkeeper Alex Schwolow was dismissed in stoppage time before the interval. An inspired second-half performance from substitute Craig Gordon, combined with disciplined defending, ensured the visitors held firm. First Half Hearts made one change from their previous outing, with Jamie McCart coming in at left-back for the injured Harry Milne. New signing Islam Chesnokov was named on the bench, while Stephen Kingsley missed out through a groin issue. Dundee started brightly and almost struck inside the opening two minutes, forcing Schwolow into a sharp diving save to push away Billy Koumetio’s header following Tony Yogane’s cross from the left. The Jambos grew into the contest and went close after 12 minutes when Claudio Braga teed up Lawrence Shankland inside the box, but the captain’s deflected effort drifted wide. The breakthrough arrived after 26 minutes. A quickly taken free-kick found Shankland in space, who slid the ball across to Braga. The winger took aim from distance and rifled a magnificent strike in off the post to ignite the travelling support. Hearts continued to press, with Shankland curling a powerful effort just wide on 35 minutes before Alexandros Kyziridis was denied moments later, his low drive well saved by Dundee goalkeeper Jon McCracken. However, the first half ended on a dramatic note. After a VAR review, Schwolow was shown a red card for denying a clear goalscoring opportunity. Braga was withdrawn to allow Craig Gordon to enter the action, and the veteran stopper immediately made a superb reaction save from the resulting free-kick. Half-time: Dundee 0–1 Heart of Midlothian Second Half Reduced to ten men, Hearts were forced onto the back foot for long spells but still carried a threat. Shankland glanced a header over the bar shortly after the restart from a Kyziridis delivery. Dundee pushed hard for an equaliser, yet Hearts’ defensive organisation remained strong. The final ten minutes brought sustained pressure, with Hamilton heading over before Gordon delivered a moment of brilliance to deny Drey Wright at the near post. In stoppage time, Gordon capped a remarkable cameo by stretching full length to tip Acquah’s header around the post, sealing a crucial victory for the men in maroon.

Aberdeen Transfers

Wayne Rooney Among Outsiders in Aberdeen Managerial Betting Market

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Wayne Rooney has emerged as a long-shot candidate in the betting to become Aberdeen’s next manager, despite not returning to the dugout since his dismissal by Plymouth Argyle in 2024. The former Manchester United and England forward made a promising start to his managerial career at Derby County, earning praise for his work under difficult circumstances. However, his reputation has suffered in recent years following unsuccessful spells at Birmingham City and Plymouth Argyle, with both clubs ultimately relegated after his departure. Since leaving Plymouth, Rooney has stepped away from frontline management and has instead focused on media work as a pundit. Despite this, his name continues to surface when vacancies arise, with Aberdeen the latest club to be linked. Aberdeen are currently searching for a new head coach after parting company with Jimmy Thelin at the start of 2026. The Dons sit eighth in the Scottish Premiership and face the real prospect of missing out on European qualification this season. Going into Sunday’s clash with Rangers FC, the club have yet to appoint a permanent successor. A report published on 9 January stated that Aberdeen director of football Lutz Pfannenstiel has drawn up a shortlist of potential candidates, including experienced German coach Uwe Rösler. Bookmakers, however, see Rooney as an outsider for the role. One firm has installed him as the 10th favourite, pricing the 39-year-old at 33/1 to take charge at Pittodrie. Who is the favourite for the Aberdeen job? The current favourite in the betting is Jens Berthel Askou, who is priced at 2/1. The Motherwell boss has impressed this season, guiding his side to fourth place in the Premiership and into contention for European qualification. Next in the market is German coach Markus Gisdol at 4/1. The 56-year-old has managed extensively across Europe, most recently in Turkey with Kayserispor, although a lack of experience in British football could be viewed as a risk. Rösler remains among the leading contenders at 5/1, although he has publicly played down the speculation. Speaking to German outlet BILD on 9 January, the current VfL Bochum manager stressed his commitment to his current role. “Lutz brought me to Düsseldorf, and we worked very well together. I have a high opinion of him,” Rösler said. “But I am 100 per cent committed to VfL Bochum.”

Aberdeen Football News Rangers

Aberdeen Vs Rangers Live Stream, TV, Kick Off Details

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Aberdeen Seek Revenge as Rangers Return to Pittodrie in Premiership Clash Aberdeen FC and Rangers FC renew their rivalry for the second time in just a few days as they meet again in the north east, with plenty at stake in the Scottish Premiership title race. Managerless Aberdeen will be determined to respond after suffering a 2–0 defeat at Ibrox Stadium on Tuesday. That result came only days after the departure of Jimmy Thelin, leaving the Dons in a period of transition. Former midfielder Peter Leven, who grew up supporting Rangers and also played for the club, remains in interim charge as Aberdeen continue their search for a permanent manager. Rangers, now led by Danny Röhl, arrive at Pittodrie aiming to complete a quick-fire double over their rivals. Röhl has made a strong impression since taking charge following the departure of Russell Martin, and another victory would further strengthen his side’s Premiership credentials. With the title race intensifying, Rangers will be eager to maintain pressure at the top of the table, while Aberdeen look to rally in front of their home support and restore some momentum. When is Aberdeen v Rangers? Aberdeen v Rangers takes place on Sunday, January 11, with a 4:30pm kick-off at Pittodrie Stadium. Is Aberdeen v Rangers on TV? Yes. The match will be shown live on Sky Sports Football, Sky Sports Main Event, and Sky Sports Ultra HDR. Coverage begins 30 minutes before kick-off, following Dundee v Hearts. Can I live stream Aberdeen v Rangers? Yes. Sky Sports subscribers can stream the match live via the Sky Go app, while NOW TV customers can also watch through the NOW TV app.

Celtic Football News Scottish Premiership

Celtic FC Managerial Odds Shift as Roberto Martínez Enters Contention

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Roberto Martínez has emerged as a serious contender to become Celtic’s next permanent manager after bookmakers dramatically shortened his odds. The current head coach of the Portugal national team has surged into second place in the betting to take charge at Parkhead for the 2026/27 season, following significant market activity. Bookmaker Coral cut Martínez’s odds from 25/1 to 2/1, placing him just behind former Celtic boss Martin O’Neill, who remains the favourite at evens. Coral spokesperson John Hill confirmed there had been strong backing for Martínez, suggesting growing confidence among punters that the Spaniard could be in the frame for the role. Martínez is currently focused on international duties with Portugal, but speculation has increased amid suggestions he could be available following this summer’s World Cup. His previous experience in club football, combined with existing connections at Parkhead, has only added fuel to the discussion. While Celtic have yet to indicate any preferred direction publicly, the sharp movement in the betting markets highlights Martínez as a name to watch as the club’s long-term managerial picture continues to develop.

Celtic Football News

Henrik Larsson Reflects on Celtic Glory, Barcelona Legends and His Love for Football Today

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Henrik Larsson sits down with Gary Neville, Jamie Carragher, Roy Keane, Jill Scott and Ian Wright on The Overlap for an in-depth conversation covering one of football’s most remarkable careers — and his complicated relationship with the modern game. The former Celtic hero reflects on his early years in football and the path that ultimately brought him to Parkhead, where he would cement his status as one of the club’s greatest-ever players. Larsson speaks warmly about settling into life in Glasgow, connecting with the supporters and producing unforgettable moments in the famous green and white shirt. His Celtic spell remains a defining chapter, but the discussion moves on to his experiences at the very top of European football. Larsson recalls his time at Barcelona, where he played alongside a young and emerging Lionel Messi, witnessing first-hand the beginnings of a generational talent. He also reflects on his short but memorable stint at Manchester United, where he shared the pitch with Cristiano Ronaldo and contributed to Sir Alex Ferguson’s squad during a crucial period of the season. Despite the brief nature of the move, Larsson explains why his time at Old Trafford remains such a special memory. In the latter stages of the conversation, Larsson opens up about life after football and admits he has fallen out of love with the modern game. He explains what has changed, the aspects of football he struggles to connect with today, and what he believes could help restore the values that once defined the sport. What is your favourite Henrik Larsson moment? Let us know in the comments, and don’t forget to like and subscribe so you never miss an episode of The Overlap. Episode Timeline 00:00 – Intro 19:38 – Celtic and Memorable Moments 33:53 – Discussing Career Low Points 42:28 – Joining Barcelona and Playing with Legends 52:57 – Returning to Sweden and Joining Manchester United 58:23 – Thoughts on Modern Football 01:06:09 – Quick Fire Questions and Final Thoughts Watch the full episode of The Overlap here:  

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