Jim Goodwin to remain as Aberdeen manager after board consider his position

Jim Goodwin is to remain in his job as Aberdeen manager following the Scottish Cup defeat to Darvel but has been told an ‘immediate response’ is needed from the team.

The Dons’ 1-0 loss to non-league Darvel in the Scottish Cup on Monday was one of the biggest shocks in the competition’s history and one of Aberdeen’s worst defeats.

Coming days after a 5-0 loss to Hearts and as part of a run that saw the team win once in nine games, the result saw scrutiny of Goodwin’s position and widespread speculation that he may be sacked by the Pittodrie club.

The Aberdeen board met on Wednesday afternoon to consider the situation and have given the manager their backing but warned that there has to be a quick turnaround in form.

A statement from chairman Dave Cormack read: “We all recognise that Monday’s disastrous result in the Scottish Cup was totally unacceptable. It added insult to injury after such a poor result against Hearts, following what was a strong performance in the semi-final against Rangers at Hampden.

“The football monitoring board, comprising Stewart Milne, Willie Garner, Steven Gunn and me, have now had a full and frank meeting with Jim. It wasn’t an easy conversation, but necessary after the overall poor results since the World Cup break.

“From our wider discussions over the last two days, we believe that the senior players and the squad are behind the manager. Combined with our discussions at today’s meeting, Jim will be in the dug-out on Saturday. However, to be clear, Jim has been left in no doubt that the Board and the fans are seeking an immediate response from him and the players.”