Zander Diamond today gave the Dons a massive boost ahead of Saturday's Scottish Cup tie against Falkirk by agreeing to sign a new deal.

Zander has signed a three and half year contract. He told RedTV "Despite what was in the papers I was always keen to stay. I am just happy now to have signed the deal and the situation is sorted. There was interest from other clubs who contacted my agent but Aberdeen have stood by me over the past 18 months when I had a loss of form and was injured so I was keen to discuss things with them first. I am very happy here. I am really looking forward to the next few years and hopefully helping the club win some trophies."

Zander interview click here

Jimmy Calderwood told RedWeb "We are delighted to have Zander on board playing with Aberdeen for another three and a half years. He has arguably been our best player this season and he has the qualities within himself to go on and take the captaincy at the club if he keeps performing and keeps learning. He is still very young but like I have said in the past he has a good head on his shoulders if not a wee bit daft at times but he is growing up and learning as he goes."

Jimmy interview click here

Willie Miller told RedTV "It is very good news. There were long conversations with myself and Zander, the manager and Zander trying to convince him, from a footballing point of view in particular, he should be playing his football in the next few years here. He went through a bad spell last year but he is back in form this year for sure. He has always had that potential to be a very good centre back and he is showing that now. I am absolutely delighted he has committed himself for the next three and a half years to the club."

Willie interview click here

Jimmy Calderwood confirmed that there is no further news on Michael Hart, Chris Clark and Barry Nicholson. The manager also told RedTV that Lee Miller has been offered a new contract. "I spoke to Big Lee this morning with regards to his contract extension and he can go away and talk to his family and talk to his agent and we will take it from there."