Aberdeen have signed one of Premiership’s ‘best wide players’ – Stephen Robinson

Aberdeen manager Stephen Robinson believes he is getting one of the best wide players in the William Hill Premiership after signing Lewis Smith from Livingston for an undisclosed fee.

The 26-year-old scored seven Premiership goals for Livi last season despite his team’s struggles at the bottom of the table.

After making his 10th summer signing, Robinson said: “As soon as Topi Keskinen’s move was completed, Lewis quickly became our priority, and we’re pleased to have got the deal done.

“I’ve admired Lewis for a long time and tried to sign him at previous clubs, but I wasn’t in a position to afford him.

“He’s consistently impressed us whenever we’ve watched him, but what really stood out was that the numbers backed up exactly what our eyes were telling us. Some of the performance data our recruitment department track placed him among the best wide players in the Premiership last season.

“We can all overlook what’s right on the doorstep at times. Lewis has proved over several years that he can perform consistently in this league and we believe there is still plenty more to come from him.

“Dons fans can expect an energetic, attack-minded winger who is deceptively quick, works tirelessly for the team, is comfortable with either foot and carries a genuine goal threat.

“He finished as Livingston’s leading league goalscorer last season despite playing predominantly in the wide area, which tells you a lot about the attacking qualities he’ll bring.”

The former Hamilton player, who made his Accies debut at the age of 18 against his new employers, said: “It’s taken a few weeks to get here but I’m happy to have finally arrived and buzzing to get going.

“This is a massive club, the fans are incredible. I actually made my debut at Pittodrie, so I know what the atmosphere is like.

“I’m looking forward to working with the manager. He talked so passionately about what he is looking to achieve here. I think he will know how to get the best out of me.

“I want to bring excitement to the fans. I am direct, I can create chances and score goals. I’ve played a lot of football and hopefully I can continue my development at Aberdeen. I know I’ve got a lot more to give.”

The Dons earlier offloaded Serbian striker Marko Lazetic to Armenian side Noah for an undisclosed fee.

The 22-year-old joined the Dons from AC Milan last summer and netted four goals in 36 appearances.

Robinson said: “I spoke to Marko towards the end of last season and we both agreed that a move would be the best outcome for everyone.

“It took a little time to find the right opportunity, but we’ve now reached an agreement with FC Noah that works for all parties.”