McInnes is ‘better than Sunderland’

Craig Brown believes Derek McInnes is ‘better than’ Sunderland and should be aiming for the Premier League if he leaves for England.

Brown is thrilled the Aberdeen manager turned down a move to the Black Cats after holding talks with the English club last week.

McInnes cited unfinished business at Pittodrie as one of his reasons for staying, and Brown is adamant the 45-year-old can aim higher than the club just relegated to the Championship.

The former Scotland and Dons boss said: “It would have to be an exceptional club before Derek would be tempted to go down south and have another interview.

“Sunderland was a unique situation. The Scottish connection may have been the reason that Derek went down.

“I genuinely believe he’s better than Sunderland and that he can get a fine job in the Premier League in England in the fullness of time.”

Uncertainty surrounding a possible takeover at Sunderland is thought to have played a part in McInnes’ decision, with the Stadium of Light outfit unable to guarantee their new manager’s position if the club changes hands.

But Brown, a non-executive director at Aberdeen, reckons the prospect of testing himself in European football was also a factor.

Brown told the BBC: “The big attraction to remain at Aberdeen would be the fact he is almost guaranteed European football every year. And I guess it will be a while before Sunderland approach European football.”