McInnes hoped for more time to fix Aberdeen form

DEREK McINNES admits he had been hoping to at least see out the season at Aberdeen.

The former Rangers and West Brom midfielder left his position as manager last month following eight years in the dugout.

His departure came following

poor run of results and a criticism football.

Chairman Dave Cormack appointed Stephen Glass as his successor, with Celtic captain Scott Brown to join as player/ coach in the summer. McInnes admits he was disappointed by the timing of his exit.

McInnes said: “Obviously it’s a sad time with a heavy heart leaving the club. over the style of the

“For me, it was the right time. I was hoping to get to the end of the season and do it that way but I have to respect the club to try and get themselves prepared for next season and it’s a different era for them now.

“It’s a different board, it’s a different management team.But I’ve got a lot of fondness, I had a fantastic time at Aberdeen, a lot of good people up there.

“I worked with a lot of very good players and good staff.But I’ve got to move on from Aberdeen now and Aberdeen move on from me.”

Although McInnes is looking forward to an extended break from the game, the 49-yearold admits he would not hesitate to return to front line management if the right opportunity came up.

Speaking to Premier Sports, he added: “It’s onwards for them and onwards for me and I have to look at the next challenge.

“I’ll take a wee break for some family time and hopefully get the golf [handicap] down a wee bit. I’m enjoying going out watching games.

“But at the same time, if an opportunity comes up and it’s exciting enough, it’s hard to resist that. It’s in us to work.”