HAYES IS AN INSPIRATION TO THE DONS
DEREK McINNES believes Jonny Hayes could be the match-winner against former club Celtic at Hampden — because he’s a muchimproved player for his time in Glasgow. The Aberdeen boss is thrilled that the SFA tweaked rules to allow players to compete for their new clubs in Scottish Cup semi-finals held over from last season, which has cleared the path for Hayes to take on the Hoops. And McInnes says the versatile wide man is relishing the chance to perform against his old team-mates on Sunday. Hayes endured a frustrating three seasons at Celtic Park, often impressing in emergency situations but failing to nail down a regular place under Brendan Rodgers and then Neil Lennon. McInnes feels the Irishman is determined to make the most of his second spell at Pittodrie, explaining: ‘I think Jonny would say himself he maybe wasn’t as focused in the early part of his career. ‘We got a hold of him here and his consistency and fitness were really what got him his move to Celtic. He was a key player for a number of years. ‘The experience of having to be that type of person to be able to play for Celtic means he has probably matured a bit more. ‘He is probably more rounded and maybe appreciates what he has got a bit more. He is a really inspirational player for us.’