Paton is flourishing under Aberdeen's new management team

Aberdeen striker Michael Paton has singed a three-year contract extension to keep him at the club until 2013.

The 20-year-old has become a regular in the team under new manager Mark McGhee, who envisages Paton taking on a more prominent attacking role in the future.

"Michael is one who we think can become a really good player," said McGhee.

"He's got goals in him but he's not producing yet. Eventually he'll play in a position which will give him the opportunity to score goals."

Paton follows in the footsteps of fellow youngster Peter Pawlett, who recently signed an extension until 2014.

"I have been playing games this season under Mark McGhee and I have never been happier," Paton told the club's website.

"I am still a young player who is learning with every game and I feel Aberdeen is the best place for me to develop my game.

"There are a number of good young boys coming through and I am really looking forward to the future here."

Following a spell on loan at Brechin, Paton returned to Aberdeen and made his first-team debut in December 2008 against Inverness.

Towards the end of last season he caught the eye after scoring in his team's 2-1 defeat against Rangers at Ibrox, and this term he has featured in almost every league game for the Dons.

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version