Scotland U21 international Jack Milne has penned a new long-term contract that will see the defender remain at the Dons until at least 2029.

Jack, who turned 22 in February, attended the SFA Performance School at Hazlehead Academy, joined the AFC Youth Academy aged 11 years old and was rewarded with a full-time contract in the summer of 2020.

Known for his versatility, he was originally a central midfielder, then a holding midfielder, before being successfully converted into a defender and is now looking to stake a claim for a place at the heart of the Aberdeen rearguard.

Manager Jim Thelin is an admirer of his adaptability and believes he is a player who has a big future ahead.

“Since our arrival at Aberdeen, Jack’s potential was evident for us to see,” he said.

“He is taking steps this year to continue his development and we believe this new contract will give him long term stability and the ability to continue his progression in familiar surroundings, in an environment which should positively influence his future.

“Jack is determined to improve and play an important part for Aberdeen and we look forward to continuing our work alongside him.”

Commenting on his deal with the Reds, Jack said: “The Club spoke to me and said they wanted to extend my deal; it was all done pretty quickly.

“I was not worried about it, as I still had a bit of time left on my current deal, but it is one of those things when it is done where you don’t relax, but you can put it out of your mind and focus purely on football.

“To be part of the managers long term plans is a very nice feeling and gives you confidence as a player.

“I recognised early on, the way he wants the team to play, that I had the attributes to help me and help the team in the long run. I am really looking forward to the future.”

Aberdonian Jack played one year at Under 18s, before being loaned out to Highland League side Brechin City for first half of the 2021/22 campaign. He also impressed whilst playing for the Aberdeen B team in the SPFL Trust Trophy that season. He was then handed his first team debut in the League Cup Group Stage match against Peterhead in July 2022 when he came on as a second half substitute.

In January 2023 Jack joined League One side Kelty Hearts on loan, making 15 appearances. The same year the Club announced that Jack had signed a new contract keeping him at Pittodrie until 2026.

In the 2023-24 season he broke through to the senior squad, gaining valuable experience by playing in Europe, including in the win against Eintracht Frankfurt at Pittodrie and he also impressed in several high-profile domestic games, most notably in the Scottish Cup semi-final.

RedTV subscribers can watch an exclusive interview with Jack now.