Derek McInnes celebrates Europa League spot for Aberdeen
He acknowledged his Dons players still have plenty to play for before the end of the season.
Last updated 16th Apr 2017
Aberdeen manager Derek McInnes has welcomed securing Europa League football for a fourth year in a row.
However, he acknowledged his Dons players still have plenty to play for before the end of the season.
A 2-1 win over St Johnstone on Saturday means they need just six points from the five post-split fixtures to keep Rangers at bay and toast another second-place finish behind runaway champions Celtic.
But the push for second spot goes on hold this week at Pittodrie, with the focus falling on preparations for the weekend's Scottish Cup semi-final against holders Hibernian.
“To get into Europe again before we go into the split shows you the good work of the players here,” said McInnes.
“It's the same as any season - you put together a squad and you hope you can meet the demand. And the demand is to try and get European football.
“As a club over the years we have never had enough meaningful games before the end of the season, but now we have got that.
“We face a different competition now but that was another three important points.
“It is another week passed and there are five games to go in the league.”
McInnes is also tipping his old club St Johnstone to fend off pressure from Hearts in the chase for fourth place.
He said: “These boys always get results.
“A lot of teams towards the end of a season can put the tools away and be happy with their lot. You could never aim that at St Johnstone.
“They will go all the way. They will feel they can do it and you wouldn't bet against them.”
St Johnstone boss Tommy Wright admitted he had no qualms about restoring Richard Foster and Danny Swanson to his squad.
The two players were fined heavily by the club and faced a two-match suspension after trading blows against Hamilton recently.
Foster started against Aberdeen in place of on-loan Preston full-back Clive Smith, while Swanson replaced Blair Alston before half-time in a tactical move, with Saints two down at that stage following Christie's opener and Tam Scobbie's own goal.
Swanson then slotted home his 13th goal of the season from the penalty spot three minutes after half-time to ensure the Dons had to defend resolutely to retain their advantage.
Wright said: “I was really pleased with their contribution.
“Richard has done well and Danny has come on and been a real bright spark for us. He gave us that wee bit extra quality.”