Aberdeen boss Jimmy Thelin braced for ‘really intense’ clash with Hibernian

Aberdeen boss Jimmy Thelin expects “a really intense game” at Pittodrie as his side bid to move level with Hibernian in the battle for third place in the Premiership on Saturday.

The Dons were a whopping 23 points ahead of the Hibees after their 3-3 draw in late November, but David Gray’s team have roared up the table since then and moved three points clear of Thelin’s side with five games to play.

Aberdeen have rediscovered their own form in recent months and are hoping to get back on level terms with Saturday’s opponents in what is shaping up to be a fascinating three-way battle for third, with Dundee United also firmly in the mix.

“It’s a three-point difference, everybody knows the importance of the game,” said Thelin. “It’s an exciting part of the season right now.

“Hibernian have done really well, but still it’s just a three-point difference and I think we’re also in a good run now. I think we are ready to play a good performance tomorrow and try to get the three points.

“Even if we win, we have some more games to play, but tomorrow is really important to win. I think it’s going to be a really intense game, a fast game, with how both teams play, but hopefully we can do the best performance and try to win the game.”

Thelin refused to be drawn on reports that Aberdeen are close to signing Australian winger Nicolas Milanovic from Western Sydney Wanderers.

“I’m not going to comment on another team’s players right now,” he said. “As usual at this part of the season the focus is on the games we have now and when we have something to say we will say it, but right now, nothing.”

Aberdeen’s attacking options have been dented following news that Ester Sokler, who only returned in March following a two-month lay-off with a hamstring injury, is out for the rest of the season with a new muscle issue.

“Ester made an injury in the training session and unfortunately he’s going to be a bit longer term, but he will be fine in the pre-season,” said Thelin. “It’s not so big, but there’s not so much time left of the season, so he’s not going to be available.

“You always feel for the player when they are training so hard and coming back and then get another setback, it’s so emotional for the player, but he’s got good support and he’s a good character, so he’s going to be fine.”