Aberdeen man Jonny Hayes has been speaking ahead of the game against Celtic on Sunday.
It’s a big early-season test for Brendan Rodgers‘ side at Pittodrie, as we aim to go back to the top of the Premiership.
But it won’t be easy against Barry Robson’s revitalised side. Aberdeen finished strongly last season to seal third spot and guaranteed European group stage football this year.
They have undoubted quality in the evergreen Hayes who continues to perform well. Despite turning 36 in July, he is still one of the fittest players you’re likely to find, and there’s one person in particular who he credits with helping him out.
“I’ve had to work hard at fitness over the years,” he told Sky Sports in the lead-up to the match. “It’s not something that came naturally to be when I was early 20s, mid 20s.
“I suppose when I went and played with Scott Brown it was probably a case of seeing how he trained every day. Still, even at 30, he was a bit of an example.
“I always try to learn from every player and coach that I come across. That was something I took from him about trying to win every race.
“It won’t always work out like that. But you try to be the fittest, quickest every time. If you’re not trying to be first and be the best you can be what’s the point?”
Former Celt Hayes is still an important part of Robson’s Dons setup. Playing mainly as a left wing-back, the Irishman is charged with getting forward while also providing security to a back three who can be exposed on occasion.
On Sunday he is likely to be up against Liel Abada who has been in impressive form for us lately. That is a battle that could prove vital in the result although Celtic will need everyone to be near their best to get three points.
It’s likely to be a nervy one at Pittodrie. Games there haven’t tended to be straightforward recently. Three points would be an early season statement of intent.
In other news, Celtic loan pair make Saturday debuts as big Odsonne Edouard moment arrives
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