ABERDEEN MANAGER DEREK MCINNES has described Gary Mackay-Stevens incident in Glasgow last month as ‘bizarre’ and ‘out of character’ but said it was a reminder to everyone about the importance of self-control.
The 26-year-old, who joined from Celtic in the summer, was rescued from the city’s River Kelvin and treated for hypothermia after a heavy Saturday night of drinking with friends.
Paramedics took him to Queen Elizabeth University Hospital before he was allowed to recuperate at home.
McInnes today confirmed to Aberdeen’s RedTV that he had spoken to an ‘embarrassed’ Mackay-Steven and that a line had been drawn under the entire episode.
“I’ve spoken to Gary and it was totally out of character for him,” McInnes revealed.
“I think it’s a reminder of the spotlight the players are under, a reminder of the restraint and discipline that’s required.
But there’s no place for a footballer to be as drunk as he was and the consequences of what happened.”
McInnes acknowledged that it was perfectly understandable for players to want to unwind but that it was up to them to behave responsibly.
“By all means have a drink – but make sure you’re in control of the situation,” he said.
“It’s bizarre circumstances but we’re here to support Gary. We’ve addressed it now. We don’t expect it to be an issue going forward with him or any other of my players.
“It could have been far more problematic for him but thankfully he is back with us. He is embarrassed as you would expect and feels he has let people down but we are here to support him.
“He’s a good lad with so much to offer. It’s all about learning as nobody is perfect.”
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