Jimmy In For MacFarlane

Last updated : 25 January 2006 By Stand Free Ed
Aberdeen's quest for more experienced players continues with 28-year-old Hearts midfielder Neil MacFarlane the latest to be linked to Pittodrie.

MacFarlane is out of contract in the summer and has made just four starts under George Burley and Graham Rix this season, after joining Hearts from Airdrie United in 2002. He made around 100 appearances in the previous three seasons at the Edinburgh club.

His proposed transfer to Dundee United fell through at the last minute in August, and will be available for a minimal fee or a pre-contract arrangement.

MacFarlane has been squeezed out of Hearts first team after the acqusition of many higher-paid loan players from Eastern European clubs under Vladimir Romanov.

The hard-working player has been told he is surplus to requirements at Tynecastle along with fellow Scottish midfielder Stephen Simmons, who could also interest the Dons.

Meanwhile, Cardiff City are the latest club to be linked with Dons utility player Kevin McNaughton. Kev has been linked with everyone from Molde, through Fulham, to Celtic and yet nothing has transpired.

With disreputable agent John Viola pulling the strings, McNaughton's next move is anyone's guess.