Aberdeen boss Derek McInnes keen to ‘freshen up’ his squad

DEREK McINNES has promised a summer of evolution rather than revolution at Aberdeen.

The possible departure of several key players means the Dons boss is preparing for his busiest close-season on the transfer trail since his first at Pittodrie.

Niall McGinn and Peter Pawlett are set to leave at the end of the season, while captain Ryan Jack has been linked with a summer move.

Ash Taylor has yet to pen a new deal, leading to the prospect of the Dons gaffer having to perform major squad surgery.

But McInnes is confident he can attract quality players that fit the Dons’ philosophy thanks to the club’s restored reputation.

“I don’t foresee a vastly different Aberdeen,” he said. “Yes there are difficulties in terms of finance – that never changes. We need to be smart with our work.

“But I still expect us to be a good side. I still expect us to be energetic, competitive and to have pace in the team.

“Aberdeen is a good decision for a lot of players – I think we can give them a lot.

“We’re recruiting from a position of strength.

“Four years ago we couldn’t say we’ve been in three cup finals in four years. We’ve played in Europe for four years, we’re playing at the top end of the table, we’ve dominated games in terms of possession and we’re used to winning.

“I can say those things genuinely now. That helps sell it. There have been improvements and people from the outside can see that.”

The Dons face Hearts today determined to wrap up second place.

They also have the Scottish Cup Final – their second showpiece clash of the season – to look forward to.

McInnes knows replicating Aberdeen’s current level of success while bedding in new talent is a challenge, but it’s one he is enthusiastic about.

“Probably, since our first year, we’re going to make more changes than we thought,” he said.

“It’s not a bad thing. There’s nothing wrong with a bit of freshness.

“Peter Pawlett and Niall McGinn – the two we know that are leaving – are the first players in my time here that have decided to move on that I wanted to keep.

“It’s par for the course. I’m surprised we’ve managed to keep this squad together for four years.

“Now there are going to be adjustments made. Just how many remains to be seen.

“But the plans are in place to try and keep that level of player in the squad for next season.

“It puts everybody under scrutiny – the board, myself – and it’s important we make the changes to keep us improving.”