Aberdeen FC boss Derek McInnes tonight confirmed there was never any chance of star winger Jonny Hayes leaving Pittodrie on transfer deadline day.

Championship sides Brentford and Bristol Rovers were today reportedly ready to move for the Republic of Ireland international.

The Red Army will have breathed a collective sigh of relief when Pittodrie sources confirmed the fans’ favourite was going nowhere in the window.

McInnes confirmed there was no transfer deadline day approaches for the 29-year-old.

And there was further good news for Dons fans as Hayes is set to return to full-training on Monday having missed the last five games with a hamstring injury.

Aberdeen today secured Norwich City attacking midfielder James Maddison, 19, on loan until January.

McInnes said: “I took a few phone calls over the past couple of days about potential players on loan.

“But I had no enquires about Jonny and none of those clubs that were reportedly interested have been in contact.

“I can assure you there has been no interest in Jonny today or recently and we are delighted with that.

“Jonny is expected to be back in full training with us on Monday and is eager to play his part in getting us into some sort of rhythm between now and the next transfer window.

“And hopefully we can see the benefit of having Jonny and James Maddison added to the squad and be optimistic in getting the results we are looking for.