Barry Robson on Aberdeen blueprint for Rangers as boss takes inspiration from Atletico Madrid chats with Diego Simeone

Barry Robson is proper old school. Of course, he’s mastered all the modern-day coaching techniques. He wouldn’t be manager of Aberdeen if he hadn’t. But don’t try and bamboozle him with the game’s buzzwords.

After a top-level playing career that spanned two decades, Robson already knows what he’s talking about. And the constant for him has always been hard graft. From being a kid at Rangers, where he had legendary duo Walter Smith and Archie Knox barking orders, right up to visiting Diego Simeone and Atletico Madrid as part of his Pro Licence. For Robson it has always been about values and standards. Maybe that’s why the Dons are suddenly flying up the Premiership table.

Since getting the gig until the end of the season following Jim Goodwin’s sacking, Robson and assistant Steve Agnew have had a major impact. Having won six on the spin, they’re third top with Rangers up next at Pittodrie this afternoon. Whatever he’s doing, the players have bought into it. But the Dons gaffer says it’s not rocket science. Forget fancy formations, low blocks or high presses.

What Robson demands are hard work, dedication and commitment. All the traits he had as a player.

Throw in the fact that you’d be a fool to mess with him or Agnew and it’s a blend that – should it continue to yield results – could keep him in the job long-term.

Ahead of Gers’ visit to the Granite City today, Robson said: “When you watch the way Man City, Arsenal and Liverpool run to get the ball back it shows you how much they want to play.

“That’s old school. Some young players coming through now think it’s all about having the ball. But a game lasts 95 minutes and you only spend three of those on the ball if you’re lucky. So you’ve got another 92 when you need to