Yahoo News Kelle Roos wanted to 'throw away' Aberdeen FC runners' up medal as he targets Hampden redemption
Kelle Roos has admitted that he considered 'throwing away' his runners' up medal from the Viaplay Cup Final, as he sets his sights on redemption at Hampden.
The goalkeeper, who was part of the team that lost 1-0 to Rangers in December, revealed that the defeat still stings and the medal holds little value for him.
Roos is now focusing on today's Scottish Cup semi-final against Celtic, hoping to make a triumphant return to the national stadium.
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When asked about the whereabouts of his runners' up medal, the Dutchman confessed: "I don't know if I am really honest. My dad probably has it. He has probably stored it away somewhere for me. I thought about throwing it away but I knew my dad wouldn't have wanted me to do that. He is back in Holland."
The 31 year old already has one Hampden victory under his belt - this season's Viaplay Cup semi-final win over Hibs. However, he acknowledged that the joy of playing at Hampden only comes with a win, stating: "Hampden is a lovely place if you win but if you don't then it isn't all that nice. It is very simple."
He added: "Me personally, we are going to go there to try and get a result. It will be a great day if we do."
Aberdeen's narrow defeat to Rangers in the Viaplay Cup Final earlier this year was a new experience for many in the Dons squad, but goalkeeper Roos believes it will serve them well. Reflecting on the event, he said: "We have a young squad and some of the players hadn't been there until the day. These things help you to learn, to know what works for you as a player and allows you to perform in these big stages.", reports the Daily Record.
He emphasised the importance of routine in preparation for such matches, adding: "For me, that goes down to the things I always do; prepare right, sleep right and good nutrition. Things I like to build into my life on a regular basis."
Roos expressed his readiness and meticulous approach to the game: "I feel I am ready and I know I have left no stone unturned. That is where my confidence feeds from. For the team, it is good that we have been there before and hopefully it helps us get what we want."
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While Celtic are the favourites for the upcoming match, Aberdeen takes heart from their recent draw at Pittodrie under Peter Leven's new management. Roos, who has secured two clean sheets in recent games, acknowledged the challenge: "Yes, I think we gave them a tough game."
He recalled the previous encounter with Celtic, saying: "The first half they were on top and in the second half we really ramped it up. We really caused them problems. My memory, I remember thinking I wanted to come away with more than a point."
Roos concluded with a balanced perspective: "That is, obviously, our side of the table. They might look at it from the first half where they could have won it. So I don't really want that judgment to cloud me too much. I remember feeling we can get something and that is important going into Saturday."
Roos has expressed his optimism about Aberdeen's future with the appointment of Jimmy Thelin as the new manager, stating: "It is very good to hear what is going on. Not only for the staff who put in a lot of work. It is nice to see how we move on."
He added, "It will be nice to meet him. He is going to finish the season in Elfsborg and then we will see what he wants from us. It is exciting times."
In personal news, Roos is celebrating a new addition to his family, having welcomed his second child with partner and Aberdeen Women's player Nadine Hanssen.
With a beaming smile, he shared: "It is a little boy, I have two little boys now. My wife and son are healthy so there is nothing more you can ask for."
Now, Roos is setting his sights on clinching a Scottish Cup winners' medal to create lasting memories for his growing family.
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