Former Aberdeen midfielder Kenny McLean has admitted that it was “time” for Graeme Shinnie to join him in England – and is confident the former Dons skipper will shine at Derby County.

Shinnie left Pittodrie at the end of the season and McLean thinks the time was right for the Scotland international to test himself against better players.

19th May 2019; Leith, Edinburgh, Scotland, Ladbrokes Scottish Premier League football, Hibernian versus Aberdeen; Stevie Mallan of Hibernian breaks away from Graeme Shinnie of Aberdeen
(photo by Alan Rennie/Action Plus via Getty Images)

McLean, now at Norwich City, insists Shinnie will stand up to the test “no problem at all” as he adjusts to life in English football.

“Aberdeen has been brilliant for him, but it was time for him to come down and test himself against good players in a strong league,” McLean told the Evening Express.

8th June 2019, Hampden Park, Glasgow, Scotland; European Championships, International football, Scotland versus Cyprus; Kenny McLean of Scotland inspects the pitch before the match
(photo by David Young/Action Plus via Getty Images)

“I think he will stand up to that, no problem at all. I know what kind of guy he is. His ability will get him through, no doubt.”

Shinnie has been fantastic for Derek McInnes’ side over the last 12 months and his return of three goals and notched three assists doesn’t accurately reflect just how important he’s been.

ABERDEEN, SCOTLAND - APRIL 03: Graeme Shinnie of Aberdeen strikes on goal during the Ladbrokes Scottish Premiership match between Aberdeen and Motherwell at Pittodrie Stadium on April 3, 2019 in Aberdeen, Scotland.
(Photo by Scott Baxter/Getty Images)

Losing their captain will be a massive blow for the Dons and McInnes will nee to pull a rabbit out of the hat to replace Shinnie’s influence.

The midfielder should have no problems at all in the Championship and it wouldn’t be a surprise if he’s the latest Scottish export to win rave reviews south of the border.

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