Aberdeen FC were today handed a fitness boost with winger Jonny Hayes set to return to action ahead of schedule.

Hayes is on course to return from a hamstring tear in next Tuesday’s Premiership clash against Partick Thistle in Glasgow.

The 28-year-old sustained the injury in the 3-1 defeat to Inverness Caley Thistle two weeks ago.

It was initially feared Hayes would be out for a month but Dons boss Derek McInnes today confirmed the play-maker is closing in an earlier than expected return.

The winger will still miss tomorrow’s New Firm derby clash at Dundee United, the Premiership’s bottom club.

Hayes imminent return is a welcome boost with star striker Adam Rooney ruled out for six weeks with a torn thigh muscle.

Rooney has netted 19 goals for the Dons this season.

McInnes said: “Jonny is really improving and hopefully we will get him for the next game against Partick Thistle.

“He is not back training yet but is running with the physios and coming along nicely.

“It is looking likely that he could be back against Partick.

“Jonny still has a bit of work to do and we need to make sure we get him back training first before we can be totally confident on that.

“But he is certainly going the right way and the physio John Sharp has done a great job with him.”

Midfielder Craig Storie, 20, who recently signed a two-year contract extension until summer 2018 has also returned having missed the 1-1 draw with St Johnstone through injury.

Right back Shaleum Logan returns having served a one game suspension against Saints.