Scottish manager reveals why he snubbed Sunderland's approach

The Scottish boss was heavily-linked with the Black Cats after the departure of David Moyes and relegation from the Premier League – before Simon Grayson was ultimately handed the role.

And speaking to the Daily Record, McInnes has now revealed how a conversation with future Aberdeen chairman Dave Cormack persuaded him to snub the Black Cats and remain in the Scottish top flight.

“There was a bit of interest in me from Sunderland at the time and conversations with the chairman and Dave convinced me that staying here was the right thing to do,” he explained.

“We’ve worked with Dave for the last two-and-a-half years.

“He’s been part of our technical board for the last couple of seasons.

“He’s been very supportive in terms of trying to get things done."