Speculation over Dons boss comes as no surprise to Hayes

Aberdeen winger Jonny Hayes feels speculation about the future of manager Derek McInnes is only natural following his achievements with the Dons.

Sunderland are understood to have discussed McInnes as they began considering potential replacements for David Moyes, with known-admirer Walter Smith helping Black Cats chief executive Martin Bain, formerly of Rangers, select a shortlist.

Despite a Scottish Cup final defeat by Celtic, McInnes further enhanced his reputation with his tactics and approach against the champions as the Dons pressed their opponents all over the park and held them – until substitute Tom Rogic capitalised on tired legs to net a stoppage-time winner.

The Dons have finished runnersup three times to the treble winners and Hayes knows that is sure to spark interest in the manager.

“It’s to be expected,” said Hayes, who was the subject of two failed bids by Cardiff City in January. “Whether it’s managers or players, if you are doing your job and you are linked with bigger or better clubs then you are obviously doing something right.

“We have had speculation about players going here, there and everywhere. We just take a positive spin on that knowing that someone is doing their job right.

“We would be delighted if the manager stays on but it’s to be expected. He’s done a great job here, lifting the club out of the doldrums to be clearly the second best in the country.

“We have tried to match the best but we have fallen a bit short this year. But it’s still a work in progress and I know the ambition he has, he will do his best to put Aberdeen on that pedestal.

“Obviously if a better offer comes in, in any walk of life you have to look at it. But as players and as a club and the fans as well, we would like him to stay on.”

Jonny Hayes: wants McInnes to stay.