Aberdeen captain Russell Anderson insists the club is in good hands after he called time on his playing career at Pittodrie yesterday.
Chris Kane’s goal gave St Johnstone all three points in a scrappy 1-0 win which ensured Saints finished fourth in the Scottish Premiership.
But in a campaign where the Dons have exceeded all expectations in taking the title race to the 36th game of the season Anderson is confident his club is laying the foundations for a successful future.
He said: “There’s a lot to be excited about at the club as we begin planning for next season. We don’t know how the league will pan out but we’ve had a taste of cup finals, semi-finals and being near the top of the league and I’m sure the manager will do all he can to keep that consistency going.”
Anderson’s on-field contribution is at an end but he will continue in a new administrative role behind the scenes when he takes on the role of business development executive on June 1.
The transition is one the veteran is looking forward to and he said: “I’m hoping staying here in among the staff will make it a lot easier to deal with retiring. I’ll still be involved and it’s something I’m looking forward to.”
Anderson’s farewell turned into the long goodbye as injuries to Nicky Low and Mark Reynolds ensured his final game ended up being the whole match.
The gruelling finale confirmed the 36-year-old’s decision to hang up the boots was the right one.
Anderson, who was joined by his sons Jevan and Cole for the post-match lap of honour, said: “I was expecting to play an hour and ended up playing 93 so yes, today confirmed I’ve made the right decision to retire.
“I didn’t expect the guard of honour before the game and the manager only told me before we went out what was happening. My son (Cole) said he wasn’t going to be the mascot so when I saw him standing there it was a lovely touch and that was when it hit me.
“It’s been such a big build-up and it is so often the case in these things it’s gone before you know it. I didn’t notice the St Johnstone supporters applauding either but it was a nice touch by them too.
“I got a lovely reception from supporters after the game but it was the start of the game which I’ll remember.”