Aaron Donnelly’s muted reaction to scoring against Celtic has drawn significant attention, but Dundee manager Tony Docherty has assured fans and pundits alike that there’s no deeper story behind the 21-year-old’s subdued celebration. Donnelly, who recently joined Dundee from Nottingham Forest on a permanent deal, scored a crucial goal in the dramatic 3-3 draw at Dens Park on Tuesday night, momentarily putting his side 3-2 ahead. Despite the magnitude of the moment and the wild celebrations among the Dundee faithful, Donnelly simply raised his hands in acknowledgment, an act that has since sparked debate and lighthearted criticism.
Docherty revealed that the Northern Ireland international has faced plenty of ribbing from his teammates, as well as an internal fine, for the low-key reaction. “He’s been absolutely battered by his teammates and fined by them too,” Docherty said. “Simon Murray couldn’t wait to get in and give him a bit of stick. Watching it back, I do think there’s an element of him not knowing how to celebrate because he hasn’t scored in such a long time. It’s his first goal in two years, and he just looked a bit stunned by the moment.”
The Dundee manager was quick to emphasize that there’s no negativity surrounding Donnelly’s reaction. “There’s absolutely nothing in it. He’s a young kid who’s had a fantastic start to his Dundee career. He’s played really well in two massive games—against Rangers in a 1-1 draw and then scoring what we all thought would be the winner against Celtic. The boys are having a laugh with him, and that’s how it should be. It’s all part of the camaraderie in the squad.”
Donnelly’s performance in his first two games for Dundee has been impressive, with Docherty commending the young defender for stepping up against Scotland’s biggest clubs so early in his time at the club. The manager described his performances as a “baptism of fire” but noted that Donnelly has handled the challenge exceptionally well.
While Donnelly enjoys the spotlight, Dundee’s midfield star Lyall Cameron has been linked with a potential move to Rangers, sparking speculation about his future. Docherty, however, played down the rumors, stating, “It’s all just speculation at this point. Lyall is a Dundee player, and I can see why he’s attracting attention—he’s been fantastic for us. We’ve offered him a contract, as we have with others, but it’s up to him to decide what he wants to do. Right now, he’s fully focused on being a Dundee player and on the derby.”
Dundee now turns its attention to Monday’s Scottish Cup clash against local rivals Dundee United, a game that carries extra significance following the recent derby defeat at Dens Park. Docherty admitted that the loss earlier this month, as well as last season’s disappointing cup exit to Kilmarnock, has added to the team’s motivation. “The cup competitions are an opportunity for us to achieve something special,” he said. “We’re not going to win the league—let’s be realistic—but the cups offer us a chance to go far if we play to our potential. When the draw for this derby came out, we knew it would be tough, but these are the games you’ve got to win if you have aspirations in the competition.”
The manager made it clear that revenge and redemption are on the minds of his players as they prepare for the derby. “Losing to Kilmarnock in the cup last year still hurts, and we’re determined to make amends this season. The derby is another massive occasion, and we’ll need to be at our best to progress.”
Dundee fans can expect a spirited performance from their side, with Docherty and his players eager to deliver a statement in the derby and build momentum for a successful cup campaign. With Donnelly making headlines, Cameron attracting interest, and a fiery derby on the horizon, there’s no shortage of intrigue surrounding the Dark Blues as they look to make their mark this season.