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Gary Mackay-Steven confirms New York City move

Gary Mackay-Steven confirms New York City move
© Reuters
Mackay-Steven scored 15 goals during his two seasons with Aberdeen.

Gary Mackay-Steven has joined MLS outfit New York City FC after turning down the opportunity to remain at Aberdeen.

Dons boss Derek McInnes had been desperate to keep hold of the out-of-contract former Dundee United and Celtic winger.

But the 28-year-old has decided to make his move to America after being lured by the prospect of playing at City's base at Yankee Stadium.

Mackay-Steven, who will join up with his new side once he secures a US work visa, told the New York City club website: "I'm delighted to finally sign on the dotted line.

"I can't wait to hit the ground running and make my debut in the blue shirt. I can't wait to show what I can do to the fans in Yankee Stadium.

"The lure of playing in America and in MLS is really attractive to me. It's always been a draw for me, it's hard to say no. I can't wait to get started.

"You see NYCFC from afar and the way they play football is the way it should be played."

Mackay-Steven, who scored 15 goals in 68 appearances for the Dons during his two seasons at the club, is convinced he can help New York City win silverware.

"A player like me, coming into an atmosphere when the philosophy is in place, it is going to be enjoyable. I want to learn as much as I can and hopefully hit the ground running," added Mackay-Steven.

"I like to make things happen and to get fans off their seats. Hopefully, I can do that in New York and show what I'm all about.

"I feel everything is in place to win a trophy. A squad like New York, with the structure in place, it's really in the team's grasp and hopefully, I can chip in with goals and assists."

City's sporting director, and former Rangers midfielder, Claudio Reyna claimed Mackay-Steven is a player City "have been tracking for some time".

Reyna added; "We're excited to add him to our squad. He's an out-and-out winger that can play on both sides of the pitch and strengthens our attacking options.

"We have a core group of experienced players who form the spine of our team and Gary possesses the same leadership qualities that already exist in our locker room.

"He's played in big games in Europe, has been part of title-winning teams, and we're really excited to have him join NYCFC."

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Max Lowe in action for Aberdeen on December 2, 2018
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Tables header RHS
TeamPWDLFAGDPTS
Championship Group
1Celtic330087285987
2RangersRangers320179275281
3Hearts311149371266
4Kilmarnock31114538755
5St Mirren31024247-546
6Dundee30034662-1641
Relegation Group
1Aberdeen33004149-844
2Motherwell32015554143
3Hibernian31024858-1042
4Ross County31023564-2933
5St Johnstone30032652-2631
RLivingston32012764-3724
 
First Phase
1Celtic33246380265478
2RangersRangers33243672234975
3Hearts33195946341262
4Kilmarnock33131284334951
5St Mirren33127143843-543
6Dundee331011124454-1041
7Hibernian33912124451-739
8Motherwell33813124651-537
9Aberdeen33811143549-1435
10St Johnstone33710162446-2231
11Ross County3379173256-2430
RLivingston3339212259-3718


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