Hayes should be on the radar

If Aberdeen can get the finances together to make it happen, bringing Jonny Hayes back to the club is a nobrainer.

I was surprised when Jonny announced he was leaving Celtic at the weekend.

He was never a regular starter in the Hoops team but he was a very useful squad member, whether deployed as an attackminded left back or in midfield.

Jonny felt there was an understanding with Neil Lennon that he was probably going to get a new deal but perhaps the financial situation has changed as a result of the shutdown.

Leaving Celtic might be a good for him. He did a good job for Celtic and never let anyone down when he was trusted to play in big games.

Most people will view Aberdeen as a likely destination for him because he loves the club and played the best football of his career under Derek McInnes.

It may not happen as the Aberdeen manager has outlined the difficult financial predicament his club are in due to the coronavirus crisis.

With no match-day income expected this year, McInnes has admitted the funds may not be there to bring new players to the club.

But if Aberdeen can make it happen then they should try because Jonny knows the club inside out and he may be the difference between a good season and an average one.

He is 32 but he will be in great shape as he has been at a good club over the past few years.

He would be coming back as a better player as he will have picked up a lot of good habits from working alongside some top players and under managers such as Brendan Rodgers and Neil Lennon.

Ryan Christie has made enormous progress during his spell at Celtic and I’m sure Jonny will also feel he is a better player for the experience.

Preston North End, Stoke City and Cardiff City are among the clubs who are apparently considering a move for Jonny.

He would certainly be able to earn more money if he moves south, especially given the current climate in Scottish football.

But it depends what Jonny’s priorities are.

He may fancy another crack at English football but he will know if he signs somewhere like Preston on a two-year deal it may be unlikely to get an extension at 34. Is it worth moving your family down there for two years? He knows the Aberdeen area and he may be at the stage of his career where he wants to play football in a place where his family may be looking to settle in the longer term.

I’m sure if a Pittodrie return is possible, Derek McInnes will try to make it happen.

HIT MAN: Jonny Hayes, right, scores for Celtic against Rangers but the former Don is now looking for a new club after leaving the Hoops