Dons make a big signing as Miller agrees two-year deal

suspense over as calderwood aims to build new-look side around striker

By Michael Gannon

Published:

FANS’ FAVOURITE: Lee Miller was touched by the supporters’ banner flown at Fir Park demanding that he stay

Jimmy Calderwood reckons he might just have made his most important signing of the summer by holding striker Lee Miller on a new two-year contract.

Miller yesterday ended months of speculation by agreeing to stay at Aberdeen after turning down more lucrative offers from south of the border.

Calderwood is embarking on a large rebuild, with as many as 10 players to be recruited. The manager is delighted he can now construct his new-look side around the talented forward, who turns 25 on Sunday.

Calderwood said: “This could be the most important signing we make all summer. It is massive for the club.

“Lee is very important to us in terms of how we play. He is still young and I know for a fact he will get even better.

“This was the longest I have ever waited for a player to make a decision and it shows how important I think he is.

“There is a lot to be done, but he is a huge part of my plans at the club. Lee had options – and probably better financial ones. It says a lot about him that he has turned them down.

“I honestly believe that if he maintains the form we have seen from him then it will be very difficult to keep him for two years.”

Miller is happy to have the deal settled and believes he can realise his ambitions at Pittodrie.

He said: “The manager has told me what his plans are and I want to be part of the rebuilding at Aberdeen.

“There are a lot of people going out of the door and there will be a lot of changes for next season. I want to be a part of things.Hopefully, I can play as much as possible and score goals.

“We want to be up there challenging for third place. I have had a great time here. It was a difficult decision to make, but I am settled here and if you enjoy your football it brings out the best in you as a player.”

Miller was bowled over by an Aberdeen supporters’ banner at Motherwell at the weekend which read “Miller Must Stay”.

Now he wants to repay that support. He added: “I did not actually see the supporters’ banner on Saturday but a few of the players saw it and they have been having a joke with me about it. It is great to have the supporters saying that about me. They have been brilliant. The European games this season summed them up. We had massive crowds and hopefully we can get them back next season.”

Aberdeen director of football Willie Miller said: “I am delighted Lee has signed a new two-year deal at the club. Some things are worth waiting for.”