Mitov's Injury Progress Exceeds Initial Expectations

Aberdeen manager Jimmy Thelin delivered cautiously optimistic news regarding first-choice goalkeeper Dimitar Mitov's shoulder injury, sustained during Bulgaria's UEFA Nations League play-off defeat against Ireland.

"The scans showed it's a small muscle injury in the shoulder – not as severe as we initially feared," Thelin told BBC Scotland. "We're looking at a matter of weeks rather than months for recovery."

Critical Timeline for Scottish Cup Semi-Final

• The 28-year-old shot-stopper faces a race against time to be fit for Aberdeen's Hampden showdown with Hearts on April 19th
• Mitov only recently returned from a hamstring issue that sidelined him earlier this season
• Club medics are implementing an intensive rehabilitation program to accelerate recovery

"We're taking it day by day," Thelin emphasized. "The medical team is doing exceptional work, but we won't risk aggravating the injury."

Additional Injury Concerns for Aberdeen

Midfield setbacks:

• Norwegian midfielder Sivert Heltne Nilsen remains sidelined with an unusual eye injury
• January signing Kristers Tobers (Latvia captain) continues recovering from hamstring trouble

Thelin confirmed both cases are "longer-term projects" with no imminent return dates.

Tactical Implications

With Aberdeen fighting on multiple fronts:

1. Reserve keeper Kelle Roos likely to start important Premiership matches
2. Potential reshuffle of defensive strategies against Motherwell this weekend
3. Medical staff working overtime to assess Mitov's weekly progress

"Injuries are part of football," Thelin concluded. "What matters is how the squad adapts – that's why we built depth this season."