Aberdeen manager Derek McInnes has hailed captain Russell Anderson as the perfect example of a professional footballer following his decision to retire at the end of the season.
The 36-year-old has opted to hang up his boots when his contract expires at the end of the term following an injury-plagued season for the Dons.
McInnes says the defender, who has made more than 400 appearances for the Dons, has made a significant contribution to the club.
He said: “Russell has always led by example in the way he plays and trains.
“We have a lot of young players at the club and they need to look no further than Russell in how to be a professional footballer.
“Russell is whole-hearted and utterly professional in his approach to the game. He has the respect of everyone at the club.
“He would love to have played more this season but rather than dwell on that I think he should focus on what he has achieved.
“He played a significant role in helping win the League Cup last year and lifting the trophy is something he should look back upon with real pride.”
McInnes is pleased Anderson will remain with the Dons in a non-playing role next season.
He said: “When he made the decision to stop playing we as a club were keen to keep him with us in some capacity.
“The role will be more commercial and corporate based and defined over the next few weeks.”