Neil Warnock reveals Aberdeen FC exit date set DAYS in advance as he hints next boss deal is all but done

Neil Warnock has revealed that it was already decided before kick-off that he would be stepping down from his role as Aberdeen boss - despite leading the Dons to the semi finals of the Scottish Cup with a 3-1 win against Kilmarnock.

The news broke just minutes after the full-time whistle, with Aberdeen fans stunned having previously been told that the 75-year-old would be at the helm for the remainder of the campaign until a new manager was found. But the former English Premier League manager has now given his reasons for his shock exit and hints that the club are on the verge of appointing the next boss on a permanent basis.

Speaking to BBC Radio Scotland, Warnock said: "I only came up to help Dave (Cormack) and Alan (Burrows) out to steady the ship. Unfortunately we haven't got the right results in the league but I wanted to try and get through in the cup. I know they are well on the way to appointing a new manager so thought it was the right time. We decided in midweek that today was going to be the day and I am glad that I left on a high as the lads were fantastic."

Warnock added that the decision was a mutual one between himself and the Dons board. "It was a joint thing", he revealed. "I told them all along that they need to get a new manager and to give him a couple of months to look at the squad as I think it needs an overhaul. If anything I have contributed to making them realise that and get a move on.

"They are very close to bringing someone in. I know Peter (Leven) will be in charge till then and he'll do a good job. It is a great club and I am sorry that I couldn't get points on board."