Aberdeen have announced the return of Jonny Hayes to the club on a two-year deal.
A video was released on the club's Twitter account featuring the attacker showing off his new jersey and exploring the Cormack Park training facility.
The Irish winger was released by Celtic at the end of the season to the surprise of many, reports The Daily Record.
The 32-year-old spent five productive years at Pittodrie from 2012 where his exciting, direct wing play won him many admirers.
Derek McInnes has been desperate to lure his former player back into the fold and has beaten off interest from a number of clubs including Dundee United to secure the deal.
And Hayes told Aberdeen TV: “It is exciting to be an Aberdeen player again. The club has made real progress since I have been away, particularly with the building of Cormack Park which looks brilliant. It was a major attraction in returning and as soon as the manager phoned and said Aberdeen were interested it was always my preferred choice.
“We were then able to come to an agreement to make the deal happen which was suitable for all parties. I appreciate it is a tough time for the club given the current climate with COVID-19 but everyone wanted to make it happen. I was more than happy to play my part by foregoing some financial gain and I am just thankful it was concluded positively.
“I want to come back and win some winners medals. I think everyone associated with Aberdeen deserves it. There have been a few near misses with some of the recent Finals, but it would be very nice to come back and win some trophies.”
McInnes admits he is delighted with the deal as he looks to assemble a side capable of improving on two consecutive fourth-placed finishes.
He said: “Bringing Jonny back to the club is fantastic. In light of the current financial circumstances as a result of the pandemic, this has only been possible due to Jonny being out of contract and his real desire to re-join Aberdeen.
“Jonny’s determination and willingness to return here is illustrated by his generous gesture to make it happen. He has never hidden his love for Aberdeen, and indeed I know his family enjoyed living in the North East, so it is no surprise to me that he was prepared to make a financial sacrifice in order to return.
“We sold Jonny to Celtic three years ago and he was a key player in our team, but he returns undoubtedly a better player for his experiences and will provide excellent cover in the left sided area of the pitch following Greg Leigh’s departure. I can’t wait to see him perform in our team once again.”
