At the age of 33, Junior Hoilett could potentially now be considered past his best, but the forward is still going strongly since signing for Aberdeen in mid-February.
The Canadian international has enjoyed a rather productive time at the Pittodrie and seems to really be enjoying his football once again. With two goals and six assists in just 13 appearances for the club, Hoilett is continuing to prove his worth and has been a hit with the fans since his arrival.
This is his first spell in Scotland, having spent the majority of his career in England between the top two divisions. An exciting left-winger, Hoilett would make 266 Championship appearances and a further 161 in the Premier League during spells with Blackburn Rovers, Queens Park Rangers, Cardiff City and Reading.
It would be with Cardiff City where he’d enjoy his best spell, becoming a firm fan favourite due to his dazzling displays. A starring member of the 2017-18 squad which gained promotion to the Premier League, he’s got a special place in Bluebird fans’ hearts.
Although he has slowed down somewhat in recent years, much of that being down to a failed move to MLS side Vancouver Whitecaps, Hoilett has seems re-invigorated with his move to Aberdeen.
He is however out of contract in the summer and no decisions are yet to be made on his future. It’s been a tough season for the Dons who will be hoping for a better year next term, they have however at least improved since Hoilett’s signing.
The Canadian seems very happy at the club and dropped a major hint about his future in an interview with the Press & Journal when asked if he had played his final home game for the club after Wednesday’s 5-1 win over strugglers Livingston.
“I hope not.
“I am enjoying myself here. We will see what happens over the summer. I’ve not had any discussions over my future yet.”
“Peter (Levin, interim manager) has been supportive since day one.
“I have enjoyed my time here and the fans, teammates and everybody at the club has been really supportive of me.
“We will have one more game and then we will see what happens over the summer.”
Writer’s View
Hoilett became somewhat of a cult hero during his spells in England’s top two divisions and was incredible to watch at his best. He was most productive at Cardiff, much down to his relationship with Neil Warnock which is why he joined Aberdeen in the first place.
It seems as if the Canadian has thrived since his move to Scotland and is really enjoying his football. He seems pretty set on re-signing next season and the ball is now in the club’s court.