ABERDEEN manager Derek McInnes is set to open talks about extending Niall McGinn’s contract.

The winger’s deal expires at the end of the season and McInnes is eager to take advantage of the Northern Ireland international’s willingness to remain at Pittodrie beyond then.

The former Celtic player joined the Dons in July 2012 and extended his contract towards the end of 2014.

The 29-year-old scored his 50th league goal for the club in last weekend’s 1-1 draw with Inverness and McInnes will open formal discussions soon.

“It was post-match after a game several weeks ago that Niall came out and said he was keen to stay and that’s music to my ears,” said McInnes ahead of tomorrow’s Ladbrokes Premiership encounter with Dundee.

“We want Niall to stay and the fact he has declared that should make that task that bit more easy.

“Because if there is a willingness from Niall then there is certainly a willingness from us to keep him here, because he has been such a key player.”

Aberdeen’s draw with Inverness was their third in five Premiership matches this season, and defeat to Celtic sees them loitering in mid-table ahead of their Dens Park test.

Aberdeen have a big eight days coming up with a Betfred Cup quarter-final against St Johnstone and a highly-anticipated clash with Rangers at Pittodrie to follow.

And right-back Shay Logan is looking to kick-start their campaign.

“It’s a tough week for us but you ask any footballer, they would rather play games than train,” Logan said. “We have a chance this week and hopefully we can put some points on the table.”