Bryson ‘will be perfect replacement for Shinnie’

McInnes has high praise for the former Derby midfielder

Aberdeen manager Derek McInnes believes Craig Bryson will prove to be the ideal replacement for Graeme Shinnie.

The former Derby County midfielder, who joined the Dons on a free transfer in the summer, will make his first outing at Pittodrie when Ross County visit on Saturday.

An ankle injury disrupted Bryson’s pre-season but the 32-year-old impressed in his third appearance for the Reds in the 0-0 draw against Kilmarnock at the weekend before being replaced with 17 minutes to go.

McInnes believes the Red Army will see the best of Bryson after the international break but has been encouraged by his start to life at Pittodrie.

He said: “We need to remind ourselves that everyone was talking last season about how we would replace Graeme Shinnie and that dynamic in the team.

“I think Craig Bryson is going to provide that for us.

“We have tried different set-ups in midfield but he gives us that ballwinning qualities and drive that Graeme Shinnie gave us.

“It is so important to have that dynamic through our midfield.

“It is clear to see he still has to go to be where he wants to be.

“I feel his season will really start after the international break but, while he is fit and available, it is important we try to utilise him the best way possible.

“He is as fit as a boy can be and really conscientious but nothing really prepares you for the heat of the battle.”

No Aberdeen players were included in Steve Clarke’s squad for next month’s Euro 2020 qualifiers at Hampden against Russia and Belgium.

Scott McKenna was expected to be in the squad but missed out as a result of the hamstring injury sustained at Rugby Park on Saturday.

It has been a difficult period for the central defender, who handed in a transfer request prior to Aberdeen’s Europa League encounter against Rijeka in Croatia.

Sheffield Wednesday, Queens Park Rangers and Nottingham Forest were among the clubs keen to bring the 22-year-old south of the border but McInnes has been impressed with the way McKenna has been since.

He said: “He has been different class. We wouldn’t expect anything different from him. He is a gem. He knows he just needs to look after his own performances and try to win games.

“If his performance levels are as good then that will propel him into the next stage.”

Picture: SNS Group. Craig Bryson.