McInnes urges Dons to keep up momentum

ABERDEEN: Boss still setting sights on second place and a Scottish Cup final appearance

Aberdeen manager Derek McInnes insists his players are ready to go the distance in their pursuit of the runnersup spot in the Premiership and Scottish Cup glory.

The Dons return from the international break at Dundee on Friday seeking three points to take them 11 clear of third-place Rangers.

An Aberdeen win will keep the Dons firmly on course in the race to finish best of the rest and McInnes is eager to see the momentum gained in 2017 continue at Dens Park.

He said: “Every game in the run-in is important but it is important we continue our steady form and hopefully we can come back and continue where we left off before the break at Dundee.

“Aberdeen should be having meaningful games at the end of the season. We have a cup to try to win and second spot to try to secure.

“We’ve taken 21 points from a possible 27 since the winter break and have won all three of our cup games as well but it is important we go all the way as how we finish the season is how people remember it.”

McInnes hopes a season which started on June 30 will come to a climax at the end of May with the Dons meeting holders Hibernian for a place in the final of the Scottish Cup next month.

It has been a long campaign but the Aberdeen manager believes the chance for his players to rest during the winter break has been hugely beneficial.

He said: “We hoped having a winter break would play out in our favour after three early starts in European competition for the past three seasons and we’re playing with a freshness and determination to our play. There’s a lot to be pleased about.

“We’ve tried to utilise the squad a bit more this year but I think, like any team, there’s an emphasis on certain players to play every week.

“We’ve got a tight squad with youngsters coming off the bench but we’ve got a good squad.”

Jayden Stockley will miss the trip to Dens due to suspension after his red card in the 2-0 win over Hearts.

Group. Picture: SNS Derek McInnes: feels winter break has allowed his players to play with renewed freshness.