Jim Goodwin adamant sitting out Aberdeen debut was never an option as new boss says Pittodrie stars rose to occasion

Jim Goodwin says he plans to make Aberdeen Scotland’s third force again after taking over as gaffer.

The new Dons boss was in charge for the first time yesterday as they earned a point in a 1-1 draw with Motherwell at Fir Park.

After leaving St Mirren, Goodwin had less than 24 hours to prepare his players for the trip to Lanarkshire.

But having looked at what he has to work with, he’s already targeting a Premiership top three spot this season.

And in the longer term, Goodwin is adamant that Aberdeen should be at least third in the table - as well as challenging to win cups.

After taking over from sacked Stephen Glass, the Irishman said: “We can still get top four. My mindset going forward is very positive here.

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“I’ve not inherited a team languishing at the bottom of the table. We’re within touching distance of teams in fourth and fifth.

“I’ve got a good squad of players, young lads and experienced players.

“I asked them to show me today if they had the commitment and desire to play for Aberdeen and they did.

“We can still improve on many things but that will come. A point today was a decent return.

“We’ve got to get Aberdeen up at the right end of the table. We’re one of the biggest clubs in the