McGhee tells Dons fans to enjoy Pawlett while they can

Published on Tuesday 24 November 2009 22:59

ABERDEEN have been boosted by the news talented teenager Peter Pawlett has signed a new four-and-a-half year deal with the club.

The attacking midfielder has impressed since making his breakthrough to the first team last season under Jimmy Calderwood and the contract keeps the 18-year-old at Pittodrie until the summer of 2014.

But current manager Mark McGhee admits the Dons have little hope of retaining his services beyond that deal if he continues to fulfil his potential.

"He has signed for four-and-a-half years and I'll be amazed if Peter Pawlett signs another contract here," McGhee told RedTV.

"The punters need to enjoy him during this period because I think in four-and-a-half years time, Peter Pawlett will not be a player that Aberdeen can afford.

"He is going to become a really good player and hopefully he will be here long enough to get to a level where, when he moves, it will be a big move for him and a big move for the club.

"Peter Pawlett has a big future ahead and the commitment we now have to make to him is that we have to be prepared to work with him every day, help him, improve him, teach him and work with him to make him the best he can possibly be because of the commitment he has shown to us."

Meanwhile, McGhee was praised for his efforts since joining the Dons in the summer by chairman Stewart Milne at Monday night's agm.

Milne said: "Mark is on the right path on the football front and the fans seem to be very happy with the way he's shaping up the team. It's encouraging for everyone to see how important the young players have become as part of his squad."