May return is a timely boost for Dons boss

STEVIE MAY is set to hand Derek McInnes a boost by returning to action for Aberdeen’s William Hill Scottish Cup fifth-round tie with Dundee United tomorrow. The striker has struggled with an ankle injury since December’s game against Rangers and has played just once since Christmas. He last featured in the fourthround win over St Mirren, when he came off the bench before suffering a recurrence of the problem. But McInnes is set to welcome him back for the televised clash after he made a full return to training. ‘He has scored a couple of goals in training which is great to see — and great for him — because it’s been a frustrating time for him,’ said the Dons boss. ‘He’s looking sharp and I’m delighted to get him back amongst the players. ‘He’s been doing a lot of work with the medical department and (head of sports science) Graham Kirk but, thankfully, he seems to have overcome that. ‘We’ve been here before but we’re confident we can keep him with us now and it’s just great to have him back.’ McInnes is wary of the threat posed today by United, but admits they must be swept aside as the Cup remains Aberdeen’s best chance of silverware this season. ‘I love cup football,’ he said. ‘We have a decent return in the last four years or so here. ‘I think we’ve had three cup finals and five semi-finals, so we are familiar with that type of game and playing at Hampden. ‘The appetite to get back there and perform on that stage is there from my players and we don’t make any bones of the intention to win the tournament. Whether that brings pressure, that’s where we are. We’re a good side and feel this is a cup we can win.’