Aberdeen boss Derek McInnes is disappointed that he will not be facing Neil Lennon in the Ladbrokes Premiership clash with Hibernian at Easter Road on Saturday.

The Northern Irishman missed last week's 3-1 win at St Mirren after reportedly being suspended.

Earlier this the Leith club confirmed that Lennon had left but stressed they had neither sacked him nor had reason to discipline the Northern Irishman, saying that the former Celtic boss and his number two Garry Parker had left the club by mutual consent.

McInnes spoke in glowing terms about Lennon and his contribution to Hibs.

He said: "It's came to a head recently and ultimately Neil has lost his job, which one way or another is disappointing.

"I think he was brilliant for Hibs and for the Scottish game, which he always had been.

"On a personal level – manager to manager – I'm disappointed he's no longer Hibs manager.

"I think he was very good for them, but key relationships at clubs are very important and if there's been a breakdown then I don't know, I'm not privy to that.

"All I do know is Hibs are a good club and I know Neil enjoyed working there.

"Neil's a very good manager and somebody else will get the benefit of that.

"Modern football is more challenging to be a manager for loads of different aspects."

McInnes is looking to build on the William Hill Scottish Cup replay win over Stenhousemuir on Wednesday night.

He said: "The aim's always to win three points whenever we play.

"There's been some good performances of late.

"We'll have to bring a big performance if we're going to win the game, but I think we're in good shape to do that.

"I was really pleased with the other night and we've got a wee bit of momentum going.

"Three points tomorrow would do us no harm at all."