That deal marked the first time in years that the Pittodrie club had paid a transfer fee for any player and their manager Derek McInnes certainly felt it was money well spent given the player’s contribution in the remainder of that season.
That was certainly in stark contrast to the start of the campaign with St Mirren as he still ended last season as the relegated club’s top scorer despite leaving Paisley with nearly half of the season remaining.
Any lingering worries have evaporated now though as the midfielder has resumed normal service with five goals in just 12 appearances so far this term in addition to proving a key figure in Aberdeen’s stunning seven-game winning streak in the Premiership.
“It’s been a great start for me being able to contribute some goals and good performances along the way,” claimed a relieved McLean. “I think I had to get going early on this season and, thankfully, that’s what I’ve done, so long may it continue.
“Frustration got the better of me at times last season as the goals just weren’t coming after I first moved to Aberdeen. That’s a big thing because goals bring confidence and I’m playing with real confidence now that they are coming. If you are branded as a goalscorer then you always want to be on the scoresheet and keep doing better, which is what I feel I am now.
“Playing in this team is really bringing out the best in me with the way we go forward and the way the manager wants us to play.That is really suiting me and right now I am getting better.”
Source: Scotsman