Sport

Supermarket trip showed me passion of fans

February 9, 2024

Warnock was pleased with the application of his players in the defeat at Ibrox

Scottish Cup last 16
Dates: 9-11 February
Coverage: Watch Morton v Motherwell and Airdrie v Hearts live on the BBC Scotland channel and follow live text commentary on the rest of the ties on the BBC Sport website & app

Manager Neil Warnock says a supermarket trip gave him an insight into Aberdeen fans’ passion for the club.

The interim manager, 75, will take charge at Pittodrie for the first time on Saturday when the Dons face Bonnyrigg Rose in the Scottish Cup.

The Yorkshireman has taken over until the summer after replacing Barry Robson – and has targeted winning the cup.

“I went round Tesco last night and I’ve never seen so many Aberdeen fans. They welcomed me – it was lovely,” he said.

“I think they know I’m just going to come and try to do the best I can.

“As I said when I arrived, I want to win every game while I’m here. It’s a very important situation, the Scottish Cup, and we’ve got to come out the traps and make sure we’re ready.”

‘You’ve got to dream’ – Bonnyrigg eye Aberdeen upset

Warnock was delighted with the effort his players showed in his first game in charge against Rangers on Tuesday – and is demanding the same against Scottish League Two side Bonnyrigg.

“The players showed me effort isn’t going to be a problem,” he said, reflecting on the game at Ibrox.

“I’m not a data person as most people know but I was absolutely gobsmacked at some players with how much ground they covered. We quite easily could have got a result.

“I’m quietly confident but at the same time I’m respectful of what Bonnyrigg can do to us.

“I’ve been in their position. There’s nothing to lose. It’s absolutely lovely for clubs like that. When I was at Burton Albion, we played Leicester City with Gary Lineker and all that lot. That was unbelievable.”