Lewis Smith will kick off his Aberdeen career away to Brora Rangers in the Premier Sports Cup this evening, but the winger has his sights set on a far loftier goal: European qualification by season's end.
The 24-year-old, who signed from Livingston on Monday, is expected to make his debut against the Highland League champions at Dudgeon Park. Smith is determined to help Stephen Robinson's new-look side secure a return to European competition after a disappointing campaign last season.
Smith's Ambition for European Football
Smith admitted that European qualification is the minimum expectation at Pittodrie. "I just want to contribute and improve as a player. Last season wasn't great. I just want to build and improve on last season. Hopefully, we can push for Europe," he said. "Every Aberdeen fan that is what they want and expect because of the history. Hopefully, we can provide that. Fingers crossed that can go well and I can be part of that push."
Aberdeen were in the group stages of the Conference League last year, but a poor campaign on all fronts means they now face trips to Brora and Queen of the South, as well as home games against Queen's Park and Kelty Hearts in the Premier Sports Cup group stage.
Robinson's Squad Overhaul
Robinson has completely revamped his squad, making 10 summer signings including Smith and Tony Yogane. The manager is confident that this squad will be more competitive at the top end of the table. Smith is expected to provide the X-factor and creativity for forwards Kevin Nisbet, Toyosi Olusanya, and Ayoub Mouloua. He scored seven goals for Livingston last season and aims to surpass that tally.
"Instead of pre-season friendlies it is good to get that competitive edge," Smith insisted. "Aberdeen would rather be in Europe, but this is a good opportunity to try and build something. We want to get a few wins under our belts and to build some positivity amongst the group, score some goals and get a bit of excitement going into the league."
Smith's Connection with Robinson
Smith revealed that Robinson's enthusiasm was a key factor in his decision to join. "The first time I spoke to him, his enthusiasm and everything, he was someone I really wanted to play under. He will know how to get the best out of me," Smith said. "He has been a fan for a while, so he knows what I am like and how I want to play. Hopefully, it will be a good relationship."
The winger described his playing style as direct and exciting. "He is looking for directness. He wants to give a bit of excitement to the fans because that is what I am like. I am really direct and I like to get on the ball, create chances and take people on. I just want to bring goals, assists and to excite people."
Rejecting Other Clubs for Aberdeen
Smith was the subject of failed bids from Kilmarnock and interest from Huddersfield Town and Hibernian. Once Aberdeen agreed a fee with Livingston, he knew he wanted to move north. He made his debut at Pittodrie as a Hamilton player in a 3-0 defeat, and now returns as an Aberdeen player. "It is a massive club and the fans are incredible," he added. "Every time I have been here, the support has been fantastic. I am delighted to be a part of it."
Gratitude to Livingston
Smith acknowledged the role Livingston played in his development, particularly manager Davie Martindale and coach Brian Rice. "Livi were great to me. I had a really good couple of years there. My relationships with everybody and the fans was great. I can't thank them enough on how I developed as a player," he said. "Chipper (Brian Rice) is a big one. He was the first manager I was properly playing under. He was a big reason why I went to Livi."
Now fully focused on Aberdeen, Smith aims to use his experience to help the club succeed. "It will be the same teams as last season but it will be slightly different now I am at a bigger team now. Hopefully, I can use that experience to do well."
