THIS week our team of sports writers will be providing their assessment of the season so far for all 12 Ladbrokes Premiership clubs.
Keep an eye on the Herald and Evening Times websites for our mid-season reviews throughout the week.
The season so far?
A mixed bag. Aberdeen have been pretty consistent and are second in the Ladbrokes Premiership as a result. But their performances against Celtic and Rangers have been disappointing. They have slumped to defeats to the Parkhead and Ibrox clubs home and away. But the uncertainty over their manager Derek McInnes can’t have helped any. It is no coincidence that form has improved since he pledged his future to the Pittodrie club.
Read more: Celtic mid-season report card: Domestic dominance continues but room for improvement in Europe
Best player
Ryan Christie. A fair few Aberdeen players have excelled once again this season as they have edged ahead of Rangers. Graeme Shinnie has shown why many fans would like him in the Scotland side, Kenny McLean has been consistent in the middle of the park and Joe Lewis has been reliable in goals. But Christie gives Derek McInnes's men an edge in the final third. His relentless work rate and skill are a handful for opposition.
Star signing
Ryan Christie again. Few of the players who Derek McInnes brought in during the close season have been absolutely exceptional. The likes of Stevie May and Gary Mackay-Steven have impressed in flashes. Bringing Christie back from Celtic on loan was the best bit of business McInnes carried out.
Read more: Celtic mid-season report card: Domestic dominance continues but room for improvement in Europe
Biggest disappointment
Gary Mackay-Steven. Yes, the winger scored a hat-trick against Hibernian at Pittodrie last month, but he has shone far too infrequently since joining from Celtic in the summer. He must contribute more.
What will the second half of the season bring?
The fight to finish in second place in the Ladbrokes Premiership promises to be fierce. Aberdeen must lift their performance levels to beat Rangers to that runners-up spot.
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