Stephen Robinson: ‘Hiding in plain sight’ – but why did Aberdeen move for him now?

Why did Aberdeen suddenly move to appoint St Mirren’s Steven Robinson as their new manager? This seems to be the obvious answer.

Saturday’s tragic end to their Scottish Cup defense at Dunfermline marked the latest low in a 16-month downward spiral that even lifting that trophy last season could not hide.

Aberdeen have been heading in one direction – the wrong direction – for some time.

Having long been talked about since Jimmy Thielen’s departure in January to flirt with options including Erik Hornlund and Sandro Schwarz, a sudden need for urgency appears to have swept over Pittodrie.

Under the influence of sporting director Lutz Pfannenstiel, all signs were that a full-time appointment would come in the summer. Take the time to get the right person. Learn from previous mistakes.

This idea appears to have been thrown out the window.

Having announced they are in talks with Robinson – after he fulfills a release clause in his contract – dotting the i and crossing the t appears to be all that stands between Aberdeen and appointing a new permanent manager.

“For me, he was a candidate from the beginning, hiding in plain sight,” Aberdeen legend Willie Miller told BBC Scotland.

“I think it will come as a surprise to most observers – including fans – that it took so long to identify the right person in front of you.

“If Steven Robinson accepts the offer, it is a positive step.”