Robson admits new coaching role at Dons has been a real eye opener

“I’m trying to do a whole spectrum of things, which is enjoyable – but the mental side of things has been the surprise.

“I realised when I was a player a lot of work went into it but McInnes is a lot more meticulous than a lot of managers.

“Derek covers a lot more things. He’s great to work for – but you need to be on your toes.

“He’s demanding which is the best bit because it will make me better.

“The manager told us to enjoy the Ventspils win for 20 minutes – then move on!

“That’s the way it should be. No stone is left unturned.

“We just finished the game in Latvia and were sitting on the bus, watching constantly. It hasn’t changed in that sense but the difference is you used to think about yourself and how you could make yourself better.

“Now you’re thinking how you make both the players better and yourself better. It’s a double dunt.

“A lot of it has been about sitting back and learning.

“I’ve been watching the gaffer, Tony Docherty and Paul Sheerin and learning about how much attention to detail goes into things.

“I’ve been in the game a long time but it takes time to get used to how much work is involved. I’m enjoying it though, and obviously winning helps. It’s been hard work and different from what I’m used to.

“But management is something I always wanted to get into even if I’ve had eyes opened a fair bit.

“It’s been no problem making the transition from player to coach.

“To go in and coach players that I know isn’t really an issue.”

Robson served a tough apprenticeship under Walter Smith and Archie Knox as a kid at Rangers and now he’s looking to use his experience to help the rising Dons stars.

He played at the top with Scotland

younger players and the first-team players. “I’m covering all the things that need to be done. “I’m trying to help the first team as much as I can then there’s the Under-17s as well. “I help Scott Anderson with the Under-17s and I’m there to assist with the first team. If Paul needs a hand with the Under-20s then I’ll go in and do that too.”