I’d swap second for silver

Derek McInnes admits he’d swap his four secondplace Premiership finishes for another piece of silverware at Aberdeen.

The Dons gaffer (below) will lead his team out at Hampden today against Rangers in a Betfred Cup semi-final showdown, with Hearts or Celtic lying in wait on December 2.

McInnes ’ only trophy as manager so far was their League Cup win in 2014 but he’s transformed the Pittodrie side, making them the country’s second best in recent years.

But he knows Aberdeen fans crave trophies and says he’d happily trade those top- two league success stories to get his hands on another cup.

Ahead of today’s game against Steven Gerrard’s side, McInnes said: “I’d trade the runners- up finishes in the league for another trophy. Of course,

if I could guarantee silverware, I’d take that over a league position all day long.

“Success can come in different shapes and forms.

“We accept that Rangers and Celtic, as well as others, have more resources than us.

“But it’s important we try to meet the demand of what is expected at Aberdeen – which is to win trophies and make our imprint at the club.

“When I signed a new contract at Aberdeen I said I had unfinished business. And that’s trophies. I’ve never shied away from that.

“Outwith Celtic, no other team has played in more semi-finals and finals than us recently.

“We’ve been there and at least given ourselves chances. But we’ve only won one cup and we’d love to get more.”

Russell Anderson lifted the League Cup four seasons ago following a penalty shootout win over Inverness after the final had finished 0-0.

It ended a 19-year trophy drought for the Dons and ignited fans’ expectations in McInnes’ first full season in the Pittodrie dugout.

The Dons boss admitted it felt good – but he now wants to do it again. McInnes said: “Winning trophies gives you real reward and satisfaction.

“Hopefully we can deliver a performance against Rangers that gets us to another final.”