Graeme Shinnie breaks Aberdeen exit silence as midfielder's next club confirmed

The midfielder, 34, re-signed with the Highland club less than 24 hours after his departure from Aberdeen was confirmed. He initially left the Caley Jags for the Dons back in 2015 and went on to play for EFL sides Derby County and Wigan Athletic before a second spell at Pittodrie beginning in 2023.

Shinnie, who has been capped six times by Scotland, grew up in Aberdeen but came through the youth ranks at Inverness CT before making over 150 first team appearances. He also famously lifted the Scottish Cup in his last match as Inverness beat Falkirk 2-1 at Hampden Park in the 2015 final.

‘Full-circle moment’ as Graeme Shinnie signs for Inverness CT after Aberdeen exit

Aberdeen released a statement yesterday confirming their captain’s departure from the club in which head coach Stephen Robinson described him as “an outstanding leader” and praised his “dedication, work rate and influence within the dressing room”. However, the release came without quotes from Shinnie himself but his official signing announcement by Inverness has seen him break that silence.

In his first words since his Aberdeen departure was confirmed, and speaking about his happiness to be back with Inverness, Shinnie said: “It’s a full-circle moment for me.

“I started my career here and have some really good memories. It’s the club where I made my debut, came through as a young boy and, obviously, leaving by winning the Scottish Cup was the perfect way to end it.

“Now I’m back, it is a great feeling, and one that I’m really excited for. It’s good to be back and I’m really looking forward to the football.”

Shinnie’s experience, leadership and pedigree should be a real asset for Inverness who secured a return to the Scottish Championship this season. Scott Kellacher guided the club to the League One title on the final day of the season with a 2-1 win over Hamilton Accies ensuring they finished above second place Stenhousemuir who also went on to gain promotion via the play-offs.

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