Derek McInnes heaps praise on Ross McCrorie after Rangers move
Derek McInnes described Ross McCrorie as a “dream” signing who he loves watching in an Aberdeen jersey after the Scotland Under-21 player shone in victory over Hibernian.
After playing predominately in defence since arriving from Rangers, 22-year-old McCrorie imposed himself in central midfield, protecting his defence, winning the ball, and helping launch attacking moves.
“I just love the boy,” McInnes said. “I think he’s a dream on and off the pitch.
“I like boys who are hungry, I like boys who are motivated. A lot of boys leave the Old Firm and think it’s downhill from there and a lot of them don’t ever go and do anything of note because of that.
🔴 Our Man of the Match as picked by Steve Cowan in our Matchday Live coverage is Ross McCrorie.— Aberdeen FC (@AberdeenFC) August 30, 2020
“He is different. He didn’t want to be in the shadows, he didn’t just want to be a Rangers squad player, he wanted to get out and get on with his career, and I love that about him.
“He deserves a lot of credit for that, because I know Rangers see qualities in him, but the fact Ross was in such a hurry to get on and get out is testament to him.
“And he’ll get his rewards for that, because young boys at that age, 20-23, need to be playing games to fulfil your career. If you’re not playing games at that age then you’ll not have the career you’re capable of.
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“He is now getting the opportunity to play games for us on a regular basis and he will only get better. I just love him in an Aberdeen shirt, absolutely love him.”
pic.twitter.com/4BRE5jfeW8— Ross McCrorie (@RossMcCrorie4) August 18, 2020
McCrorie spent much of last season playing at right-back on loan for Portsmouth but the way he performed at Easter Road suggests midfield could be his long-term home.
“His athleticism gets him out of trouble, his brain gets him out of trouble, gets him into positions,” said McInnes after Lewis Ferguson’s penalty earned a 1-0 win at Easter Road.
“Having Ross’s power and intelligence in there allows us to play with one or two more attacking players.”