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Dons closing in on move for Kilmarnock midfielder

Craig Slater: Linked with a move to join Aberdeen.
Craig Slater: Linked with a move to join Aberdeen.

Craig Slater has all the attributes necessary to become a key player for Aberdeen, according to his former manager Kenny Shiels.

The Dons are closing in on a move for the 22-year-old central midfielder, who is a free agent after deciding to leave Rugby Park.

Aberdeen would be forced to pay compensation to Killie as Slater is only 22 but that figure would be reduced as he only joined the Ayrshire side in 2012 after coming through the ranks at St Mirren.

Northern Irishman Shiels handed Slater his Kilmarnock debut in December 2012 and reckons the midfielder would thrive at Pittodrie under Derek McInnes.

Shiels, who is currently in charge of Derry City, said: “Craig is a very energetic player with a great desire for the game.

“His attitude is very good. He came to us from St Mirren and he was determined to make the most of his second chance.

“He really kicked on and we were delighted with the progress he made.
“I think Aberdeen would fit him very well.

“They are scouting around the league looking to pick up the best young players.

“They have done that with Kenny McLean and Graeme Shinnie in the past and I’m not surprised they are looking at Craig.

“He has a dynamic game. He is very comfortable taking the ball off the back four and building up play.

“Aberdeen tend to play a 4-2-3-1 and I would certainly be looking at playing him as one of the two holding players.

“He receives the ball well and makes good angles to link up play.

“There is no doubt the boy can play and I think he would be a really good addition for Aberdeen.

“He is a very good professional with all the attributes necessary to get a lot out of the game.”

Slater announced he was leaving Kilmarnock after helping them to a 4-0 win against Falkirk in the Premiership play-offs last Sunday.

He said: “It was a tough decision to leave. I wish the club all the success in the future.”

Slater began his career at St Mirren but failed to make a first team appearance before joining Killie in 2012.

He has been capped by Scotland at under-16, under-17, under-19 and under-21 level.