Dons boss issues GMS a warning
ABERDEEN manager Derek McInnes has warned Gary Mackay-Steven over his conduct after the winger’s drunken bridge plunge. The former Celtic playmaker had to be rescued by emergency services after spending 90 minutes in the River Kelvin following a night out in Glasgow with friends. Mackay-Steven was treated for hypothermia at Queen Elizabeth University Hospital after the incident in the early hours of Sunday, August 27. The 27-year-old had been an unused substitute 24 hours earlier in the Premiership
leaders’ thrilling 4-3 victory over Partick Thistle before the players went off on a two-week international break. McInnes offered his full support to Mackay-Steven, who he says was left embarrassed by the incident and the spotlight it subsequently shone on himself and his club. But the Dons boss vowed the frightening river plunge — which could have had fatal consequences — should serve as a reminder to all of his players about their responsibilities. McInnes said: ‘I spoke to Gary. It’s totally out of character for him. It’s a reminder of the spotlight that the players are under and of the restraint and discipline required. There’s no problem with players relaxing and switching off — and there is no better time to switch off when there are two weeks before a game. ‘But there is no place for a footballer to be as drunk as he was and then the consequences of what happened. ‘I mean, it’s bizarre circumstances but we’re here to support Gary. But it’s also a reminder to him and everybody else of the responsibilities of making sure there is that restraint and discipline at all times. ‘By all means have a drink but make sure you are always in control of the situation. We’ve addressed it and I don’t expect it to be an issue going forward with him or any of my players. ‘It could have been far more problematic for him but thankfully he is back with us. He is embarrassed, as you would expect. He feels he’s let people down. But we are here to support him. ‘He’s a good lad and he has so much to offer. It’s all about learning. Nobody is perfect and we all make mistakes. ‘He is a young footballer with his best years ahead of him and I’m sure we’ll see that over the course of the few seasons we’ve got him.’