ALEX McLeish reckons Aberdeen boss Derek McInnes has put himself on course for another trophy triumph after fleshing out his steely skeleton with some flashy flair.

Former Dons defender McLeish has been hugely impressed by the Pittodrie side’s summer business.

McInnes has boosted his forward ranks after landing Wes Burns on loan from Bristol City as well as former Inverness striker Miles Story.

But it was the display of Norwich City loanee James Maddison against Rangers last month which really caught ex-Scotland boss McLeish’s eye. And that performance has convinced him his old side can see off Morton in Saturday’s BetFred Cup semi-final and take a huge step towards landing their second piece of silverware in the space of three seasons.

McLeish, who was appearing on behalf of BT Sport, said: “Derek has done marvellous work at Aberdeen. Winning a trophy is always the most true accolade you can get for your hard work as a manager. I think he could be on the cusp of achieving that once more with this side.

“The team is playing brilliantly and has built up some real momentum since the Rangers game.

“The majority of the team has been playing together for three or four years and they have a brilliant understanding. Now Derek has managed to add a bit of flair to the steel they have.

“The young lad James Maddison’s goal against Rangers was world class. It’s great to have a player like him, Niall McGinn and Wes Burns who have that bit of special talent.”

:: BT Sport is your home of unmissable live football from the BetFred League Cup and SPFL. Watch Rangers v Celtic in the BetFred League Cup Semi-Final exclusively live on BT Sport 1 this Sunday from 1.15pm.


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