Jack MacKenzie expresses that missing out on a cup final with Aberdeen last season has fueled his determination to help the team end their 10-year trophy drought. This setback seems to have strengthened his resolve to contribute to the team’s success in securing a trophy after a decade-long wait.
Jack MacKenzie received a second yellow card for a careless shove on Hibs defender Lewis Miller during the Premier Sports Cup semi-final at Hampden Park last November. Despite MacKenzie’s dismissal, Aberdeen managed to secure their place in the final with a late goal from Bojan Miovski, playing with 10 men. However, MacKenzie, aged 24, was unable to participate in the final and had to watch from the stands. Unfortunately, Barry Robson’s Aberdeen side endured a heartbreaking 1-0 defeat to Rangers, with James Tavernier scoring the decisive goal 14 minutes from time.
Jack MacKenzie now has even greater motivation to ensure that Jimmy Thelin’s team reaches and wins the final this season. Reflecting on the past season, MacKenzie expressed his disappointment at missing out on the final due to a suspension resulting from a “stupid” action. He described the loss in the final as cruel and acknowledged that he cost himself the opportunity to play. This experience has ignited a strong desire within him to earn another chance to compete in a final and contribute to his team’s success.
Jack MacKenzie reflects on the circumstances surrounding his suspension and missing the final, acknowledging that the manner in which it happened added to his disappointment. Despite this, he found solace in the fact that his teammates went on to win the semi-final game, which alleviated some of his initial feelings of regret. MacKenzie admits that had Aberdeen lost the game, his disappointment would have been even greater. Ultimately, he had to accept the consequence of not being able to participate in the final, understanding that he had no one to blame but himself for the situation.
On the final day, Jack MacKenzie found it challenging to watch from the sidelines, knowing he couldn’t contribute directly. However, he maintained complete confidence in his teammates, believing they would secure the victory. Unfortunately, despite their efforts, things didn’t unfold as expected on that crucial day, and Aberdeen was unable to achieve the desired outcome in the final match.
Despite Aberdeen’s challenges last season, Jack MacKenzie stood out as a consistent performer, making 38 appearances in the left-back position. As a graduate of Cormack Park youth academy, he was satisfied with his contributions on the field. Moreover, MacKenzie feels that he has grown significantly off the pitch, indicating personal development and maturity beyond his football achievements.
Jack MacKenzie emphasized the importance of regular game time for maintaining rhythm and form. He highlighted the challenges of staying in rhythm when players experience breaks between matches. This consistency in playing matches is crucial for athletes like MacKenzie to perform at their best and contribute effectively to their team’s success.
Jack MacKenzie expressed his enjoyment of the past season and acknowledged the responsibility that comes with being 24 years old. He understands the need to provide mature leadership in the dressing room, especially since Aberdeen has several younger players in the squad. MacKenzie recognizes the importance of his role in guiding and supporting these younger teammates, both on and off the pitch, as they navigate their careers and contribute to the team’s success.
Jack MacKenzie expressed confidence in Jimmy Thelin and his new management team, which includes assistants Christer Persson and Emir Bajrami. He believes that under their guidance, particularly with their focus on developing his attacking capabilities, he can further enhance his game. MacKenzie also praised the overall coaching setup, including Peter Leven, highlighting the collective impact of the entire coaching staff on the team’s development and performance.
Jack MacKenzie elaborated on the coaching setup under Jimmy Thelin and his team, highlighting the comprehensive approach to player development. He mentioned that each coach contributes to both defensive and offensive aspects of the game, with specific focus areas: Christer Persson on defense and Emir Bajrami on attack. MacKenzie expressed a personal interest in improving his attacking skills and emphasized that every player benefits from working with all the coaches.
He also praised Peter Leven for his significant role in his development during the previous season, indicating ongoing reliance on his expertise. MacKenzie described the coaching staff as a cohesive unit with impressive knowledge, which has positively impacted the team’s readiness to learn and grow under their guidance.
In other news, Jimmy Thelin confirmed Bojan Miovski’s return to the Aberdeen squad for their upcoming match. Miovski, a key forward from North Macedonia, was absent in their previous game against Queen of the South amidst transfer speculation linking him with Bologna.
