Mark McGhee held talks with his squad after the defeat by Falkirk

Aberdeen manager Mark McGhee revealed he changed tack with his side following the 3-1 defeat by Falkirk.

McGhee lambasted his players after their midweek Scottish Cup exit but opted for a "frank" exchange of views at the Falkirk Stadium.

"We've had a brilliant, frank discussion which will benefit us going forward," he told BBC Scotland.

"But there's been a lot of home truths that they've had to face up to as well. And there's a lot that I'll take away."

The Dons players were heavily criticised by McGhee after the cup loss to Raith Rovers but he preferred a different approach after losing to the Bairns - despite leading through Charlie Mulgrew's early free-kick.

"We had lambasted them for their performance against Raith Rovers and a lot was said," said McGhee.

"Tonight I asked them the question about how they felt about things since I'd been at the club; about the way I do things and the things I ask them to do; the way I've asked them to work and the changes I've made."

It's my responsibility to keep looking for answers and I'll do that Aberdeen manager Mark McGhee

McGhee said his current squad lacked flexibility in terms of their creativity.

"At times I've maybe asked too much of that and I haven't given them a rigid enough structure or a clearer picture on what they can bring."

McGhee, who revealed he was not concerned that the Dons' inconsistent form had damaged his managerial reputation, said focus now turned to next Saturday's league game against Hearts.

"We'll try to be good enough come the Hearts game and I will have a plan," he added.

"Based on what I've heard tonight, I'll give them some of their own way and we'll see how it works for us.

"It's my responsibility to keep looking for answers and I'll do that."

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