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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
David Irvine

Ex-Celtic and Aberdeen stars salute Jonny Hayes after emotional final Pittodrie match

Jonny Hayes' former team-mates have hailed the winger after what looks to be his final appearance at Pittodrie.

The Irishman received a guard of honour in the 5-1 win over Livingston as recognition of his period at Aberdeen.

Hayes - who played for Aberdeen across two spells - was visibly emotionally moved by the fitting send-off as he was consoled by team-mates on the pitch.

And the former Celtic player thanked those in attendance at Pittodrie as he reflected on the "emotional rollercoaster" of his final match for the club.

Hayes has been coaching at Aberdeen, alongside training as a player, and has been linked with a post in the Celtic academy but it's thought Pittodrie chiefs want to keep hold of him.

On his personal Instagram, Hayes posted: "Where do I start… "What a way to round off the home campaign! There has been some inconsistencies this year but the way Pete and the boys have been playing lately, there’s a lot to be positive about going forward. "As youth coaches at the club, there’s no better feeling than seeing academy players doing well and breaking into the first team, but to see a player I’ve had the pleasure of coaching do it whilst sharing a pitch, it’s hard to to top that! "@fletcherboyd56 congrats! What a start! I expected you to find your feet quickly, maybe just not that quickly! "Pittodrie, thank you! Bit of an emotional rollercoaster last night but to receive that reception with my family there, meant so much to me."

Former team-mate Lewis Ferguson - now at Bologna - joked: "Top man Jonny never understood a word you’ve ever said but your a legend ❤️"

Ex-Celtic captain Scott Brown wrote: "What a man you are young Jonny Hayes. One of the great guys in the game ❤️🔥"

Aberdeen midfielder Dante Polvara added: "Jon boy glad we had that moment to top off the last few years ❤️"

And Liverpool full-back Calvin Ramsay - who progressed through the ranks at Aberdeen - replied: "Legend, congrats mate👏🏼❤️"

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