Dunfermline manager Neil Lennon praises Nurudeen Abdulai after impressive return to form

Dunfermline Athletic manager Neil Lennon has praised Ghanaian defender Nurudeen Abdulai following his impressive return to form after recovering from a shoulder injury.The 22-year-old missed the opening seven games of the season after suffering the injury during a pre-season match against Clyde.Abdulai returned in Dunfermline's league defeat to Livingston but has since rediscovered his best form, helping the Pars record victories over Raith Rovers and Queen's Park, as well as a draw against Arbroath.His performances in the last two matches have earned him consecutive Man of the Match awards, underlining his importance to Lennon's side.Lennon has been particularly pleased with the Ghanaian's progress since returning to the team.He looks good, Lennon said. Hes a really good athlete for a start. But hes good on the ball; hes getting better on the ball.And his reading of the game is good.The former Medeama defender enjoyed a breakthrough campaign last season after joining Dunfermline from the Ghanaian club in September 2025.He made 31 appearances and collected several player of the year awards at the end of the campaign, establishing himself as an important figure at East End Park.Lennon believes Abdulai's confidence has now returned after initially having to overcome concerns following his shoulder injury.He had a really good breakthrough season last year, and we missed him at the start of the season, Lennon added.He had to get over that confidence thing with his shoulder. And now hes over that. Hes looking really good.The Dunfermline boss has also encouraged Abdulai to contribute more going forward, with the defender showing his ability to carry the ball into attacking areas.Lennon has been impressed not only by Abdulai's performances but also by his growing personality within the squad.You can see more of Nurus personality coming out as well, which is really, really good to see, he said.Abdulai is now expected to play an important role as Dunfermline look to build on their recent run of positive results.