Loss of 'multi-functional' McGrath a blow

Aberdeen manager Jimmy Thelin admits it is a blow to lose "multi-functional" attacking midfielder Jamie McGrath for a lengthy spell.

Republic of Ireland international McGrath, 28, who is out of contract in the summer, has had shoulder surgery and will be sidelined for "a number of months", say the club.

McGrath has made 27 Dons appearances this season, scoring five goals.

Speaking before Saturday's Premiership visit of St Mirren, Thelin said: "It is [a blow], he is really good at helping us create chances and is a multi-functional player who can play in different positions, is always giving everything.

"For me it is most important that the player is coming back and we can push and help them.

"You always want every player available but it is also for the individual, the player himself being out of the team for two or three months, and Gavin [Molloy – already out with a shoulder injury] the same, we have to be there to support them."

There is also bad news concerning American midfielder Dante Polvara, who last month played his first game since May following a hamstring injury.

Thelin said: "He had some small setback in his leg so let's see how long a time he will take."

On a more positive note, Aberdeen were boosted by the long-awaited return of Senegales striker Pape Habib Gueye - the club's top scorer this term - in last weekend's Scottish Cup win over Elgin City.

"He has been talking about that for three months [wanting to start again]," said Thelin.

"He is ready, he is a positive guy, I like his energy and I like that players are pushing and show this ambition to be helping the team.

"There is a lot of energy there, he wants to show himself. He is training well but we also have to take care of him now so we don't get any setbacks."