Aberdeen manager Derek McInnes pleas for help as he admits struggle to replace Birmingham-bound Sam Cosgrove

Aberdeen manager Derek McInnes admits he needs “help” after his side were held to second goalless draw in four days.

Aberdeen manager Derek McInnes during the frustrating 0-0 drew with Livingston (Photo by Craig Foy / SNS Group)

After a 0-0 draw against St Johnstone on Wednesday, the Pittodrie side were this time frustrated by Livingston at the Tony Macaroni Arena. McInnes revealed he spent more time trying to sign a replacement for striker Sam Cosgrove than preparing tactically for the clash with David Martindale’s in-form side.

Cosgrove is currently tying up a £2million move to Birmingham City. McInnes seemed to issue a plea to chairman Dave Cormack to release the necessary funds to cover the wages of an on-loan striker.

The Aberdeen manager knows the stage of the season and timing – the transfer window closes on Monday – means he is up against it as he tries to identify someone with sufficient quality.

“The January window is traditionally so hard to bring No.9s in,” said McInnes. “Unless you’re spending money like Birmingham are going for big Sam you very rarely get what you want.

“It’s tough. We’ve ran up a few cul-de-sacs chasing players. On Friday I spent more time concentrating on that than I was on the game because we’re all under a bit of pressure. We knew there was a chance Sam could have gone so, ultimately, we’re scrambling around trying to deal with it. I’m hopeful but we need help.

“It’s difficult playing without a recognised No.9 sometimes,” he added. “The team needs help at the top end of the pitch. My players need it, we need it as a staff and our supporters need to see us being strong over the next couple of days and getting a player or two in. It will be a loan, if we get one.”

McInnes would not be drawn on Celtic’s loss to St Mirren, which means his side are now a point closer to second place. Five points separate the teams though Aberdeen have played one match more than Celtic.

“We’re only looking at ourselves, not Hibs or Celtic,” he said. “We have to deal with our own business. But we need help to bring people in.”

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