JONNY BE GOOD
Rooney: Hayes would be a coup for Dons
ADAM ROONEY reckons Aberdeen re-signing Jonny Hayes would be a major coup because he’s still good enough to do a job for Celtic.
The Irishman was surprised at news the champions had decided to release his countryman and former Dons and Inverness team-mate.
Aberdeen and Dundee United are among a number of Premiership teams keen on signing Hayes and Rooney would love to see him back playing under Derek Mcinnes in the red of his old team.
Rooney (inset) said: “Jonny would walk into the majority of the teams in the Premiership.
“He’s done a great job and a lot of people were surprised they let him go. I certainly was.
“He could have done a job at Celtic for another year or two.
“He could go into most other teams in Scotland and be one of their top players.
“If Aberdeen were to re-sign Jonny then it would be a great bit of business, especially on a free transfer.
“He is now 32 but he is as fit as anyone.
“I talk to him all the time and he tells me his times for his runs and I normally double it and then try to do it in that time.
“Jonny has always looked after himself and is a very good pro. He still has a good few years left in him at the top level.”
Hayes has already said he would be keen on a Pittodrie return and Rooney reckons the Red Army would love to see their old hero back.
The Solihull Moors star said: “I wouldn’t be surprised if Jonny was to return to Aberdeen. I know he is still a fans’ favourite at Pittodrie.
“Jonny was one of our best players at Aberdeen and he was one of our most consistent performers over a number of years. Niall Mcginn and myself had a good relationship with him going forward and there is no doubt he was a great signing for Aberdeen.
“I reckon the majority of the support would welcome him back with open arms.
“A few were disappointed when he went to Celtic but Jonny had given Aberdeen good service and they also got a decent transfer fee. I don’t think anyone can begrudge Jonny his move to Celtic. He has something like eight medals from his three years there so that shows the quality that Jonny has.
“I watched a lot of his games on the television and he did very well. I’m surprised he didn’t cement his place in the Celtic team for next season.
“Jonny is versatile and can play left-back, midfield or the wing and that is another asset in itself and will be a big attraction to a lot of teams.”