Ex-Newcastle United winger Stephen Glass backed to bring 'exciting football' back to Aberdeen after replacing Derek McInnes in Dons hotseat

The 44-year-old ex-Magpies man returns to the club where he left to sign for United in 1998.

Glass leaves his post as head coach of MLS second string side Atlanta United 2 – and back in 2019 spoke exclusively to the Gazette about the arrival of then record Atlanta sale Miguel Almiron and his managerial influences in the game.

The former Scotland international has previously held coaching posts at Shamrock Rovers in Ireland and Carolina RailHawks, Triangle Futbol Club and Carolina Rapids in the USA, before making his way through the ranks at Atlanta, where he stood in as interim boss following the departure of Frank de Boer.

“It is a real honour to be named Aberdeen FC manager. Since my retirement from playing, I have been focussed on becoming the best coach I can be with the aim of being in a position to secure an opportunity such as this,” he confirmed in a statement following his Dons appointment.

“Having worked with a number of esteemed managers and coaches in the game, my football education has been extensive and my time with Atlanta United 2 has afforded me the chance to develop some exciting young players and hone my coaching skills.

“From the initial conversations I have had with the chairman and the board this week I am hugely excited about the plans that are being put in place for next season.”

And Aberdeen chairman Dave Cormack believes Glass, who came through the youth ranks at the club, can bring back the ‘Aberdeen way’.

“He is a bright, young, emerging manager who has all the attributes we are looking for to take this club forward,” he said.

“His winning mentality, having been mentored in the ‘Aberdeen Way’ from an early age, and desire to embrace the club’s strategy were key factors in our decision. He is committed to an exciting, attacking style of football and maximising our player budget so we can get the best out of, and right balance between, experienced players and, crucially, developing and playing young first team players.”