As Celtic prepare to face Aberdeen at Celtic Park, there’s a familiar face set to feature for the visitors. Ross Doohan, the former Celtic goalkeeper, has established himself as a key player for Aberdeen this season and is poised to line up in their starting XI.
For many Celtic fans, seeing Doohan back in action at the home of his former club will undoubtedly bring back memories of his time in the Hoops’ youth ranks and subsequent loan spells.
Early Years at Celtic
Ross Doohan’s career began in the Celtic youth system in 2013, where he spent time developing his goalkeeping skills before being loaned out to various clubs to gain senior experience. His first taste of senior football came in 2015 when he joined Cumbernauld Colts on loan. Although his time there was brief, it gave him the chance to showcase his potential. A subsequent loan to Greenock Morton in 2017, however, didn’t pan out as hoped, with Doohan returning to Celtic without having made a competitive first-team appearance.
Loan Spells and Development
Doohan’s time at Celtic saw him venture out on multiple loan spells, most notably with Ayr United. His first loan to the Honest Men in 2018 was a stepping stone in his career, making his senior debut in a Scottish League Cup match against his former club, Greenock Morton. Over two separate spells with Ayr, Doohan impressed, becoming a regular starter and gaining invaluable experience in Scotland’s top-flight.
A brief stint with Ross County followed, though he struggled to secure a starting role, making only five appearances during the 2020-2021 season. A more promising loan spell came at Dundee United, where he was called in as an emergency replacement for injured goalkeeper Benjamin Siegrist.
Permanent Move to England and Return to Scotland
In August 2021, Doohan made the move to England, joining Tranmere Rovers on loan, with the deal becoming permanent the following summer. His time in England set the stage for a move back to the Scottish Premiership in July 2023, where he signed with Aberdeen.
Doohan’s Impact at Aberdeen
Since joining Aberdeen, Doohan has made an immediate impact, establishing himself as the Dons’ first-choice goalkeeper under manager Jimmy Thelin. This season has seen him make 11 league starts, and he will now return to Celtic Park with the aim of helping his side secure an important result against his former club. For many Celtic supporters, seeing Doohan back on the pitch will be a reminder of his potential and the pathway he followed through the ranks at Parkhead.
A Familiar Face, But a New Challenge
Although Doohan’s time at Celtic may not have seen him break into the first-team picture, his career journey since leaving the club has been one of growth and determination. With Celtic Park set to be his stage once again, Doohan will no doubt be eager to show the fans of the Hoops just how far he’s come since leaving in 2022.
