Aberdeen have delayed Scott Vernon's surgery so he can remain available until they retain their SPL status.
Brown wants to have top-scorer available for run-in
Aberdeen have delayed Scott Vernon's scheduled surgery so that he can remain available until they retain their SPL status.
Vernon revealed plans to undergo a hernia operation following the club's Scottish Cup semi-final exit to Celtic at the weekend.
However, with the club not mathematically safe from the drop manager Craig Brown wanted Vernon to delay the season-ending procedure.
Brown knows that while it is unlikely they could find themselves playing First Division football next season he is not counting any chickens.
Available
"Scott Vernon saw the specialist on Tuesday and he is ready to go for surgery whenever necessary," Brown told the
Press & Journal.
"We just felt it would be better to have him available until we get over the line.
"I am not too concerned about relegation, but until it is mathematically impossible we do not want to take any chances.
"I know it would take a huge collapse and other teams to do something special, but you do not like to tempt fate.
"Teams have won five games in a row after the split in the past and it is best not to take any chances.
"Scott has agreed to play as long as he is needed and it is another example of the player's commitment to the club.
"He is completely happy to keep going as long as he is needed. Ideally we can get the three points on Monday and then we will be safe."
