Aberdeen: The View From the Opposition

We very quickly caught up with Gavin who now lives in Australia to talk briefly about the events with his former club up North. (The questions were asked before today's announcement that Derek McInnes had decided to knock back The Rangers)

The big talking point at this minute is the Derek McInnes situation regarding the vacant Rangers job. It’s been reported today (Wednesday) that McInnes and his assistant never took training and were meeting with Stewart Milne away from Pittodrie. Does this look more than likely that Aberdeen will need to start looking for a new manager very soon?

Yes it certainly does. Once it gets to this stage - it only looks like there will be only one outcome. 

Aberdeen have hit a rough patch recently with one win in five. It’s quiet out of character for the Dons. Players might say otherwise but do you think the ongoing speculation regarding the manager has had an effect on the club?

I don’t think the players would admit it and I have been in the same situation also but sub consciously I think it must play a part - hard to tell really.

With you now living in Australia now, you might not have seen Aberdeen as much but how do you feel new signings Gary Mackay Stevens and Greg Stewart have done considering they have had to fill the gap Johnny Hayes and Niall McGinn left? Their stats seem to be underwhelming when compared to the players above and also their stints at both Dundee clubs.

Johnny and Niall were such pivotal players for Aberdeen for a good few years that it’s hard to come in and replace that straight away. I’m sure Greg(who proved himself at Dundee) and Gary (who is a great player) will do so.

The past few seasons have seen second place more of less Aberdeen’s for the taking but this year they have Rangers and Hibs pushing them now. After two defeats against the Glasgow club it would seem they have some serious competition?

Yes of course. And it’s always gonna happen. Rangers are getting stronger as they were always going to. Hibs are going well also. 

The Dons have put their plans on hold regarding the new proposed stadium but Mine is hoping that their application can be heard by the Council this month. How much does the club need to move to a new stadium?

I really hope they manage to push through the new training ground and stadium because for the progression of the club it is crucial. It’s such a good club that is being held back by lack of facilities. 

Again, with you residing in down under, you may have not seen much of Dundee but from what you have hear or read, what players do you think will cause the most problems for Aberdeen

Well Mark O’Hara is doing great and is scoring goals. Along with El Bakhtaoui's pace and finishing ability - they are the two on form that will cause problems. 

It’s been sixteen games since we last beat Aberdeen in the League, going all the way back to 2004. With Aberdeen stutter in the league just now, can Dundee finally grab all three points or will the Dons make it eight wins on the trot against us?

It’ll be a big ask, but it’ll be a close game either way.