McInnes: I wanted to stay at Aberdeen for the season

DEREK McINNES has revealed 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 in the wake of a poor run of results and criticism over the style of football. Chairman Dave Cormack has appointed Stephen Glass as his successor and McInnes (right) admits he was disappointed by the timing of his exit. He said: ‘Obviously, it’s a sad time with a heavy heart leaving the club. 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, the 49-year-old would not hesitate to return to management if the right opportunity came up. Speaking to Premier Sports, he added: ‘I’ll take a wee break for some family time and, hopefully, get the golf (handicap) down a wee bit. ‘It would be good to get some time out, reflect and prepare for your next job. But at the same time, if an opportunity comes up and it’s exciting enough, it’s hard to resist that. ‘Hopefully, I’ll get back into that, get the bit between the teeth again and come back better than ever. I’m really looking forward to the next challenge, but also looking forward to a break as well.’