Callum Davidson has thanked Derek McInnes for “opening the door” to his St Johnstone coaching career ahead of their first battle as dugout rivals.
The new Saints boss didn’t get long to work with the man who signed him up for a second playing spell at McDiarmid Park nine years ago.
But he is grateful to the now Aberdeen manager for bringing him back to the Perth club, as well as providing him with his first training ground opportunity.
Davidson, whose team will face the Dons at lunchtime on Saturday, recalled: “Derek phoned me up and asked if I wanted to come back.
“I was out of contract and was training with Nottingham Forest, but Del called me and asked if I fancied coming back up the road.
“He wanted a bit of experience in the squad.
“I was delighted to get the chance to return – even though Del and Doc were away about three or four months later.
“I enjoyed working under the pair of them and still speak to them regularly.”
He added: “It was under Derek that I started doing a bit of coaching. I was working with the kids on a Monday.
“I was going through my licence at the time and had done a few bits and bobs, but he opened the door for me to do it here.
“I was still focused on playing at that time, I played on for another two seasons, but working with the kids here was something I really enjoyed.
“I’m looking forward to coming up against the pair of them this weekend.”
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