Derek McInnes used to secure most of his signings for Aberdeen in the plush surroundings of Gleneagles. But, when it came to landing a deal for Barry Robson, the terms were thrashed out and agreements concluded at a Granite City chippy.
McInnes only dished up a one-year deal. He even made Robson pay for the meal. But he knew he was getting a stalwart worth his salt. That negotiation came a decade ago back in 2013 and, despite the passing of time, the pair have remained close.
Robson went on to play three years for McInnes at Pittodrie having been his team-mate back in the day at Dundee United. Once that playing career at Pittodrie was at an end with 17 caps for Scotland in his locker, Robson moved into coaching at the behest of the now Kilmarnock manager. The pair will now go head-to-head as bosses for the first time when McInnes takes his Ayrshire outfit back to his old haunt.
