Derek McInnes |

“I think the element of us not having played properly for three weeks was going to bring more of a risk factor to the game. But the players were so professional. Their energy and enthusiasm to play was really important. “We did not score right away.

“Their keeper has had two or three fantastic saves and we could have done better with some of our finishes. Andy should have done better with a header from a few yards out. But there was no panic. There was a confidence and maturity to keep going and I thought the movement ahead of the ball for the man in possession was good. We worked some opportunities and there was some good quality play. It was a high level of performance although there were moments of rustiness. You would normal take it for granted Adam Rooney would score that chance at the back post.

“The game was everything we wanted from it.

“We got ourselves going again (after the break), we were professional and enthusiastic. We treated the game properly. We also got the youngsters on at the end for the final 15-20 minutes. it was good to give them that opportunity.

“It was a good day for us all round.

“I thought Niall was outstanding. He has been back training with us this week. We are pleased that he is recharged and energised for the second half of the season. If that is a taste of what is to come for the rest of the campaign, then I am delighted.

“Adam also led the line well and it is important for Adam to get his goals.

“There is no update. (on the transfer speculation).

“We are as we were. I thought Jonny was excellent. I thought he was part of a good team performance. When Jonny and Niall are in that mood and moving about, they are difficult to mark. You always feel something is going to happen with those boys.

“Jonny’s hamstring was a bit tight at the start of the week so we did not want to take any chances as the pitch was a bit soft. We got him off which gave others some game time.

“I am not going to comment on the players we have been linked with.

“There has been so much written that is wrong and there are one or two who are right. I would rather comment on other team’s players when we get people in the door. We are trying to add to the squad and retain what we have got here. We have not got the biggest squad as you can see from the bench today but we have got good quality and it is important we try and bring quality in in one or two areas.

“Niall leaving is not an immediate concern.

“We have got him for at least the rest of the season and we are hopeful we can keep him beyond that. Niall is very happy here. He has never indicated that he wants to leave. He has always said he is not is a rush to commit. He wants to see what is happening. I think we have as good a chance as anyone. If he decides to stay in Scotland I think we will win that fight. Niall is greatly appreciated by everyone in the city and the club and by his team mates. We just want to get the best performances out of him, the ones Niall is capable of and that was a step towards that today.

“A home draw would be ideal.

“We have not too many home draws in the cups. You are always a bit more confident playing at home. But we are just glad to get through and into the next round because there are always shocks in the cup somewhere. We will deal with the next one when it comes along.”

“We have not too many home draws in the cups. You are always a bit more confident playing at home. But we are just glad to get through and into the next round because there are always shocks in the cup somewhere. We will deal with the next one when it comes along.”