Three Aberdeen aces who could play a key part against Burnley
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Aberdeen’s season begins with a bang on Thursday, as the Dons face Burnley in the Europa League at Pittodrie.
Sean Dyche’s men impressed last term in the Premier League, so it’s a tough test. Especially so with Derek McInnes’ side adapting to life without Adam Rooney.
But the men from the Granite City still have a number of players who can cause the English outfit plenty of problems.
We look at three who could be key if the Dons are to progress, kicking off with an impressive summer signing…
Chris Forrester (CM)
Peterborough United made the play-offs in EFL League One last term, and versatile midfielder Forrester was a big part of that success.
The classy and skilful 25-year-old chalked up five assists in the third tier, and starred as the Posh won at Aston Villa in the FA Cup third round.
And the Irishman also won’t be daunted by making his Dons bow in Europe. Forrester has featured 11 times in the UEL and Champions League, for homeland clubs Bohemians and St Patrick’s Athletic.
Stevie May (CF)
If the Dons can recapture the May of 2013-14 this season, they’ll have an unbelievable player on their hands. In his breakthrough season, the long-haired hitman racked up 27 goals and 10 assists.
Things have been a bit stop-start for the 25-year-old since. But he began to find his feet again at Pittodrie last term, and to add some neat passes to his powerful striking play.
The Scotland international’s aerial presence and smart finishing could well cause the Clarets headaches. May also has the advantage of having previously faced the Lancashire side, during his up-and-down stint with Sheffield Wednesday.
Gary Mackay-Steven (LW)
Few players are capable of producing the kind of match-winning solo displays that GMS can. Last season’s hat-trick and assist in the 4-1 demolition of Hibernian and stunning FA Cup display against Dundee United are testament to that.
Pacy, tricky and able to deliver an inch-perfect ball, Burnley could struggle to keep tabs on him.
Especially so with Mackay-Steven building a superb understanding on the left-flank with the ever-reliable Andy Considine.
In the match betting, Aberdeen are 13/4 for victory in the first leg. Meanwhile, it’s 10/11 for the Dons in the Double Chance Market.
With attacking talent on both sides, the odds make it 3/4 for Both Teams to Score. And Over 2.5 Goals is a fraction longer at odds of 17/20.
Click here for the latest Aberdeen v Burnley odds.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing
