Manager Jim Goodwin dismayed at confidential meeting leak.

As a result of a confidential meeting on Monday between Manager Jim Goodwin and Andy Considine being leaked, Aberdeen FC has been left with no choice but to confirm that Andy, a long-term servant, will depart the Club at the end of this season.

Commenting on the news, Manager Jim Goodwin, said:

“I feel compelled to let our supporters know the facts after my meeting with Andy was leaked which I feel has thrown myself and the Club under the bus.

“On 10^th February the Club offered Andy a new one-year contract, rewarding him with a six-figure guaranteed deal, and furthermore offered him the opportunity of a pathway into coaching with our Youth Academy, where the Club would continue to invest in his future including his coaching badges.

“Andy’s agent on 23^rd March sent in a counter-offer which was over 50% more than our offer in guaranteed wages, and for a two-year contract.

“During my confidential talks with Andy we discussed the parties being too far apart financially and the reality is that I cannot guarantee him playing time next season. Ultimately, and understandably Andy wants to play.

“We were to meet again on Thursday to agree a joint statement on Andy moving on after a sterling career and service to Aberdeen. Unfortunately, this discussion was leaked, but not by the Club, and shouldn’t have been in the public domain until it was agreed by both parties. I would prefer to handle these sensitive discussions in-house and not have them played out in the media but feel it is important to now provide an insight into the situation.

“I have to make these difficult decisions and take the emotion out of it. This is entirely a football decision and as manager of this Club it is my job to ensure we have a dynamic squad fully equipped for the challenges of the new season.

“It goes without saying that everyone at the Club thanks Andy for all his efforts over many, many years at Pittodrie and we wish him all the very best for the future when he does leave.

“The focus now has to only be about trying to win the game against Ross County on Saturday.”