Angus MacDonald felt pretty hard done by when Swindon Town ruthlessly axed him in January. He was club captain, with 18 months left on his contract and a wealth of experience that could have helped their promotion push.
But all of that counted for nothing as the English League Two side told him he was free to go. The 30-year-old was worried that it might be the start of a downward spiral for his career.
But instead, it might just prove to be the best thing that has ever happened to him. MacDonald took a gamble by signing a six-month deal with Aberdeen.
Now he’s a stalwart of a team that has been transformed since Barry Robson took over as gaffer. The centre-back has extended his stay for two years, is dreaming of Europa League football – and is now talking about a potential Scotland cap.