Former Aberdeen midfielder Adil Aouchiche’s debt to former Dons boss Jimmy Thelin

Adil Aouchiche insists his time at Aberdeen has helped build his confidence.

The midfielder spent the first half of last season on loan at the Dons from Sunderland and was a mainstay of former manager Jimmy Thelin’s side.

Thelin’s dismissal in January led to Aouchiche leaving the Dons to secure a permanent move to Schalke 04.

In an interview with L’Equipe, the 23-year-old says he looks back fondly on his time at Pittodrie and is indebted to former Dons boss Thelin.

He said: “It was a great experience, it helped me a lot.

“I gained a lot of confidence there. My coach gave me playing time, allowed me to play in the Conference League.

“Then the club’s plans changed when Jimmy left, and I felt I had to leave.

“Schalke came calling, so I jumped at the chance.”

Since leaving the Dons, Aouchiche has hit his stride in Germany.

He helped his club win Bundesliga 2 and promotion to the top flight and is revelling in his new surroundings.

He said: “I’ve reached a point in my career where I finally feel comfortable. The project here suits me, I can play the way I like.

“I’m comfortable at my club and in my situation as a person, thanks to the respect and trust shown to me.”

Aouchiche disappointed to miss out on World Cup

Aouchiche’s displays have also led to him forcing his way into the Algerian national team although he was not selected for the World Cup.

The midfielder represented France at youth level but had no hesitation in representing Algeria.

He said: “During my last years with France, I was already considering it. It was a decision of the heart.

“Personally, it was my grandparents who came to France. I think of them, uncles and aunts who are no longer with us. They would have been proud to see me wear that jersey.

“I also have this desire to leave my mark. My son will be able to say that his father played for the national team. That’s a great source of pride.

“It would be a lie to say it wasn’t a huge disappointment (not to make the World Cup squad).

“It was a dream of mine to participate, but I respect the coach’s decisions.

“I hope I’ll have another opportunity to help the national team in a different context. I’ll be their biggest supporter and I hope Algeria goes far.”

[Source: Press and Journal]