NEW DEAL FOR ROWSON, BUT EBBE DELAY

The 24-year-old player looked to be on his way out of Pittodrie last season when Skovdahl sent him on loan to Livingston but now the Dons boss admits Rowson has a big future with the club.

Skovdahl has opened up negotiations with Rowson and Aberdeen's chief executive Dave Cormack will take the talks further when he returns from the United States next week.

Injuries to Russell Anderson and David Lilley forced onetime midfielder Rowson to convert to being a full back when he returned from his spell at Livingston, and that has won over his manager.

"Last season I was as a little doubtful that Rowson would make it through," said Skovdahl. "He had been injured and played only a few times for me, so I wasn't really sure about him but I didn't want to let him go until I had made up my mind properly.

"So we offered him a one year contract which he is on at the moment, but I have been pleased with him this season and I have recommended to the board that we give him a new deal.

"Physically he can do it in midfield but maybe not technically, so he is more comfortable on a position down one line."

Rowson is glad that he is being given the chance to stay at The Dons. "I am glad things are working out but it should not take this long because I have always said I want to stay here," said Rowson. "It just depends on what the club are offering."

However, Skovdahl said his own negotiations for a new contract have been in limbo since May, when he spoke with club chairman Stewart Milne.

"There have not been any discussions lately, but I am not in a hurry," said Skovdahl. "We spoke about it in the summer before I went on holiday.

They came back to me with an offer and I went back with how I thought things should be.

"I didn't demand anything, but since then there has been nothing. However, that is up to the club. Things can change in a week or two in football."