Aberdeen have been boosted by the news that Barry Robson is ahead of schedule on his comeback from injury.

The veteran midfielder could make a return from the sidelines against Partick Thistle next weekend after responding well to a knee operation.

"Barry is knocking his pan in to get back for the Partick game," Sky Sports News quotes Dons boss Derek McInnes as saying.

"He's working hard and he's probably a wee bit ahead of where we thought in terms of his physical state.

"He is back running again and looking strong and powerful. There's not been any setbacks since the operation and he has given himself every chance."

Robson is expected to return to training within the coming days, but is yet to be confirmed for inclusion against Partick.