Auction for ex-Inverness Caley Thistle manager John Robertson’s Scotland shirt raises over £3000 to support club legend Aaron Doran through injury rehabilitation
A fundraiser organised by former Caley Thistle manager John Robertson to help club legend Aaron Doran during his recovery from cruciate ligament surgery has passed £3000.
Robertson is auctioning off a Scotland jersey with his name and the number 14 on the back, issued for Euro 1992 – although the former Hearts striker picked up an injury just before the tournament and ended up playing no part.
Doran picked up the serious injury in the 19th minute of ICT’s match against Raith on Friday, April 19.
He says the club twice cancelled his scheduled operations, and the 33-year-old’s contract ended last month meaning he became a free agent while still waiting for an operation.
Former teammate Shane Sutherland, who was in a similar position last summer after picking up a cruciate ligament injury of his own in 2022, organised a crowdfunder that covered the full cost of the procedure Doran needed.
However, with Doran unable to play football again for a long time as he goes through the rehabilitation process, money raised from Robertson’s auction will go towards supporting the Irishman and his family.
Entries for the auction will close at noon on Monday, July 15
Robertson wrote of the attacking midfielder: “Since my return to ICT Aaron had been a near constant fixture in the side due to his ability and his workrate, and whilst capable of match winning contributions in terms of his goals and assists it his desire to do well for the team that makes him an obvious first choice pick.
“Aaron had battled back from two serious knee operations that would have finished some people’s careers and that’s testament to his strong will and desire to get everything out of his career.
“Off the pitch he is great character to have in the dressing room and his humour, whilst dry, is absolutely hilarious and he is hugely popular.
“He's hard working and very talented and it’s easy to understand why he is adored by the ICT fans and has scored some incredible goals over the years in big matches.
“He is a great role model and imparts his experience to the younger lads in the squad and sets the standards required in training and in matches.
“(He was) never a problem on or off the pitch and had been a pleasure to work with and get to know.”