Aberdeen Football Club Heritage Trust

Born in London and of Nigerian background, he was been capped by England at all levels up to under-19. Aluko progressed through Birmingham City's youth system, which he joined at the age of eight. His first-team debut for Birmingham came in August 2007 as a late substitute in the League Cup tie against Hereford United. Three days later he joined Aberdeen on loan until January, making his debut as a late substitute in the UEFA Cup group match against Panathinaikos in October. His first goal for the club came in a 2-0 victory over Dundee United. Some impressive performances in the UEFA Cup and SPL led the Pittodrie hierarchy agreeing an extension to the loan.
There then followed some outstanding performances, highlight of which his man-of-the-match effort against Bayern Munich in the UEFA Cup. After returning south last summer, Aluko signed for Blackpool on a month's emergency loan on 8 August, featuring twice for the Seasiders, before his deadline day permanent transfer to the Dons, signing a three-year contract for a fee of £50,000. Aluko went on to win the Clydesdale Bank Scottish Premier League Young Player of the Month award for November 2008. A massive talent who is a hero with the fans. His trickery and pace are always a threat. He plays as a left winger or a forward, and was capped by England at all levels up to under-19 before accepting an offer to play for Nigeria. His older sister, Eniola, was also a footballer who played for England at full international level.