The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
Mackay-Steven is gust dandy on windy night
Aberdeen: Dons boss hails scoring winger after side beats Hibs
Aberdeen manager Derek McInnes hailed Gary Mackay-Steven as one of the best wingers in Scotland after he scored thanks to a super strike as they moved up to fifth place in the Scottish Premiership.
Mackay-Steven intercepted a poor Ryan Porteous pass before striding forward and beating Adam Bogdan with a powerful low drive from 25 yards to give his side their fourth win in a row.
McInnes was pleased to see Mackay-Steven produce another strong display when it mattered and insists the winger is as good as any of his peers in Scottish football when in-form.
McInnes said: “It was important Gary produced a performance as I wasn’t too happy with his recent displays.
“I had a word with him and told him it is important he realises how important a player he is for us as on his day he is one of the best wingers in the league.
He will go away with the Scotland squad in good spirits and Gary is someone who needs to be really on it for us.
“When he is we’re a better team and once he got his goal he was a handful. When he reaches his levels he is as good a wide player.”
The Dons boss believes the industrious efforts of his attacking players was key to beating Hibs and was quick to single out Stevie May for praise.
The Aberdeen striker did not score but he was given a rousing reception for a tireless display when he was replaced in the closing stages and his manager hopes the recent displays show May is finding form.
He said: “I didn’t want to take Stevie off but he was feeling his calf was tight. He’s had a really tough game and a half for us.
“Our supporters are very forgiving when they see workrate and our front three worked hard but May got us up the park tonight. It’s not all about goals but they will come if he comes showing that appetite and willingness. I’m still looking for more of an attacking threat but having a full squad back more or less, as any manager will tell you, is needed for that familiarity and level of performance.
“We took a real dent at the start of the season, more than I’ve ever had here due to injuries and suspension, but we need to knuckle down now and push on from here.”