Aberdeen vs Dundee United SOLD OUT as Sir Alex Ferguson returns for Jim Goodwin's home debut

Excitement is in the air around the Granite City this weekend.

Sir Alex Ferguson, the club's greatest ever manager, is set to be greeted by a packed Pittodrie as he returns home almost 40 years after masterminding the Dons to two European trophies.

The buzz around the city has been reflected by the fact that Saturday's match against Dundee United has been announced by the club as a complete 20,000 sell-out.

A statement from the club read: "SOLD OUT! Our match with Dundee Utd is now sold out.

"We can't wait to see you all at Pittodrie tomorrow! COYR! #StandFree"

The last time Pittodrie was sold out for a domestic encounter was against Celtic in December 2018.

The Dons lost 4-3 that day but the Pittodrie faithful will be hoping their fortunes will be different as they face off against their New Firm rivals as Jim Goodwin leads the side out for the first time at home.

Ferguson is set to take to the pitch pre-match with a stunning display organised by the Red Army to show support for the legend.

Aberdeen's average attendance has been around the 13,000 barrier prior to Covid.

But the resurgence of ticket sales for this clash emphasises the fondness Dons fans have for Ferguson.

Ferguson's time in the north east between 1978 and 1986 was the most successful period in the club's history.

Aberdeen hosted an event at the stadium on Friday where they unveiled a life size statue of Ferguson with many Gothenburg Greats in attendance among a packed Richard Donald Stand.