Former player and assistant manager to Sir Alex Ferguson at Pittodrie re-joins the Dons

Willie Garner is returning to Aberdeen Football Club as a non-executive board director.

The former Dons player and assistant manager to Sir Alex Ferguson will bring his extensive Scottish footballing and business experience to the Pittodrie boardroom with immediate effect.

Aberdeen FC chairman, Dave Cormack, said: “A credible and authoritative commentator on the game, Willie is well-respected in footballing circles and the business community. His love for Aberdeen and his passion for and knowledge of the game made him an obvious candidate when we were looking to add depth and breadth to the board.

“Having recently retired from a successful business career in banking and finance, Willie will bring both commercial acumen and football knowledge to the board and provide valuable input and advice as we look to execute and deliver on the Club’s strategy.”

During his playing career, Garner played for Aberdeen FC between 1975 and 1981, winning the Scottish League Cup in 1976 and the Scottish Premier Division in 1980. He began his coaching career as player manager with Alloa Athletic in 1982 before returning to Aberdeen in 1984 to become assistant to Alex Ferguson. During his two years as Fergie’s number two, the Club won five major trophies.

Following his retirement from football, Garner pursued a second successful career in banking and finance with Lloyds and then Scottish Widows.

Commenting on his appointment, Garner said: “I’m incredibly honoured to join the board of Aberdeen FC.

“Having spent considerable time, in particular with the chairman, the directors and senior management at the Club over the last few weeks, I’ve been really impressed by what I’ve seen. It’s obviously been a really tough season, but I’m convinced the vision and strategy is the right one for the Club. This includes the new structure that’s been put in place within the football operation, player identification and recruitment department. The Club also has first class training facilities which, along with its new stadium aspirations, bode well for the future. I do believe we’re on the right path to delivering the results the Club and its fans want to see. It often takes a season or two when you go through a transition, however, I’m very excited to be joining the board at this time and looking forward to contributing to the Club’s sustainable success.”