Taylor says thanks and farewell to Aberdeen

Ash Taylor has revealed he decided to leave Aberdeen because he wanted a new challenge.

The centre- back has left Pittodrie following the end of his contract after scoring ten goals in 126 appearances for the Dons following his move from Tranmere Rovers.

In a statement on Twitter, the 26- year-old said: “After 3 years it is time to say goodbye to Aberdeen, I am sad to leave an amazing club, great city and a changing room like no other but I am excited to take on a new challenge and see what the future holds for my football career and my family.”

Taylor thanked the fans, team-mates, club plus manager Derek Mcinnes, assistant Tony Doc her ty and there st of the coaching staff, and added :“Aberdeen will always hold a special place in my hear t and I’ ll always look back fondlyon the memories made here.

“From the European games to welcoming our beautiful daughter into the world last October, I will remember every moment.”

Taylor is one of a number of players leaving the club this summer. Ryan Jack has completed his move to Rangers, Niall Mcginn has alsodeparted and Peter Pawlett previously signed a pre-contract deal with MK Dons. Cammy Smith signed for St Mirren last week.

Forward Lawrence Shankland and goalkeeper Aaron Lennox have also left Pitto drie following loan spells in the Ladbrokes Championship, while second- choice keeper Neil Alexander has exited as well.

The Don shave already made one summer signing – Inverness Caledonian Thistle midfielder Greg Tansey on a pre- contract – and have been linked with the likes of Hull City playmaker Shaun Maloney and Birmingham City’ s Greg Stewart.

Stewart has struggled for game time at the English Championship club, starting just six league games. Hearts have also been credited with an interest in the former Dundee attack er who has two years remaining on his contract.