Jonny Hayes insists Aberdeen will have no European hangover against St Johnstone

Aberdeen wide player Jonny Hayes is relishing another chance to build on their unbeaten run as he dismissed suggestions their European exertions could affect Sunday’s Premiership game against St Johnstone.

The Dons drew 1-1 with HJK Helsinki at Pittodrie on Thursday in the Europa Conference League while Saints have had all week to prepare for Sunday’s Pittodrie clash.

Hayes said on the Aberdeen website: “There will be no Euro hangover on Sunday. I have always said that playing games is the most enjoyable part of being a footballer and the more games you have to look forward to, the better.

“We also have a big enough squad so if the manager wants to make changes, then he can do.

“Everyone is looking forward to another home game at Pittodrie.”

Aberdeen were frustrated they could not turn their dominance into three points against the Finnish champions but the performance was another sign their season had turned after going five league games without a win.

A double win over Ross County and a memorable triumph at Ibrox have come in between two encouraging displays in the Conference League group stage.

Hayes said: “We always knew it would take time. We did not get all the players in for the start of pre-season in June.

“The manager would have liked everyone in at the start of June, but that was never possible.

“The players have come in and they have trained really well, they have bonded really well – now it is about putting more points on the board.

“We know that we need to be fighting on all fronts this season.

“The league is very tight at the moment. I could not even tell you where we are. It is still early days.”