Duk Aberdeen contract latest as Jimmy Thelin makes promise to reborn striker

Jimmy Thelin admits it's unlikely Duk will sign a new contract at Aberdeen. But the Swede has vowed the striker will remain a key part of his plans until the day he leaves Pittodrie.

Duk, 24, has revitalised his Dons career after going AWOL during the summer. The ex-Benfica starlet attempted to force through an exit but returned with his tail between his legs at the end of the transfer window. The Cape Verde forward has knuckled down to win back the trust of the Red Army by repaying Thelin's faith in him after being offered a lifeline to recover his place in the team.

But with his deal expiring at the end of the campaign, Duk is free to talk to other clubs from January onwards. Thelin knows the talented frontman could end up leaving the club for nothing next summer but is happy to work with him for as long as he can.

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Thelin said: "I don't want to speculate on how long the player is going to stay. I know the business. There's always things happening in this business, but I'm happy as long as Duk shows his energy and his fighting spirit for Aberdeen and the team.

"He's bringing a lot of energy to the team and also quality as a player. So that's my focus, I don't think about what can happen in the future. Duk is a top player. He has worked hard since he came back in, on the training pitch and in games.

"He has given all he can every day, been a good team-mate and an important member of the Aberdeen squad. That's all a manager can ask. Duk is part of an environment at the club where we feel he is still growing."