JJ wishes the Jambos had Don the Bryson deal
Jim Jefferies admits he is gutted Hearts missed out on the signing of Craig Bryson, after backing the Scotland internationalist to inspire an Aberdeen title challenge.
Jefferies took a punt on Bryson as an untested youngster, snapping him up for Kilmarnock for a cut-price compensation fee from Clyde in 2007.
The gamble paid dividends, as the midfielder went on to notch 14 goals in 135 appearances for the Ayrshire outfit, securing Bryson a dream move to Derby County and Killie a £400,000 cheque.
Eight years later, and following a loan spell with Cardiff City, Bryson is returning north, and Jefferies reckons the Dons have pulled off a sensational coup.
Jefferies said: “Aberdeen are a club that has aspirations to challenge the Old Firm and Craig Bryson is the sort of signing who can help that happen.
“That is the pedigree he is bringing. He will improve the squad massively.
“He is only 32 and still has plenty in the tank. He always kept himself really fit and is the consummate professional, always staying behind and doing extra work. It’s a real coup for Aberdeen.
“I did see Craig linked with coming to Hearts a couple of months ago and I thought,‘That would be a terrific signing’.
“Speaking as a Jambo, unfortunately that was not to be and, honestly, I think they’ve missed out on a top player. I should maybe have tried to have a word!
“When he was at Kilmarnock with us, Gary Locke was there as well, and he’s now back at Hearts in an ambassador’s role.
“So I had my fingers crossed that Lockie might have been able to put in a word.
“At this stage of his life, Craig will have a few different things to consider – family, his future – and he obviously felt Aberdeen was the best place for him.
“They are certainly a big club and I’m sure they’ll have ambitions for this season.
“They have started to bring through some really good young players and I’ve no doubt Craig will help them along.
“He leads by example and is always willing to have a chat or give out a little bit of advice.
“I’m sure boys like Conor McLennan and Lewis Ferguson will have aspirations to achieve what Craig has, so his experience can only be an asset.
“He’ll keep them right, on and off the park.”