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Aberdeen part ways with boss McInnes
GLASGOW, March 9, 2021 (BSS/AFP) – Aberdeen manager Derek McInnes left the Scottish Premiership club on Monday after eight years in charge.
McInnes departed after a run of just two wins in 10 matches left fourth placed Aberdeen in danger of missing out on a European place.
Aberdeen chairman Dave Cormack claimed the decision was made by mutual consent despite reports McInnes had been sacked.
“Derek and I reviewed where we were and agreed that this was the right time for him to step down,” Cormack said.
McInnes took over in 2013 and led Aberdeen to their first silverware in two decades the following year when they beat Inverness on penalties to win the Scottish League Cup.
He steered the Dons to four second-placed finishes and was almost lured away from Pittodrie when both Rangers and Sunderland were linked with him in 2017.
But the pressure mounted on former Bristol City boss McInnes after a run of poor displays culminated in Saturday’s goalless draw against Hamilton.
“During his time in charge Derek raised the bar and delivered a level of consistency not seen at the club for many years, qualifying for Europe each season and delivering a memorable Scottish League Cup win at Celtic Park,” Cormack said.
“Clearly, results since the turn of the year have been disappointing and frustrating for everyone.
“The club now has the opportunity to appoint a new manager ahead of the new season.”
Aberdeen will be led through their remaining six league games by an interim coaching team of Paul Sheerin, Barry Robson and Neil Simpson.
BSS/AFP/AU/08:55 hrs