Stephen Robinson is already plotting a fast start for Aberdeen next season, and he believes skipping European football could be the secret weapon the Dons need.

Taking over at Pittodrie in March, Robinson has steadied the ship, guiding the club to top-flight safety. Saturday's commanding 2-0 victory over Dundee United capped off a four-game unbeaten run, giving fans plenty of reason for optimism heading into the summer.

The former St Mirren boss is convinced that Aberdeen's European commitments took a heavy toll on their domestic form this campaign. "When things don't go as well as you want them to, or expect them to, you can have seasons like that, and a lot of the time it is after Europe," Robinson explained.

"After Europe is a big test, and a lot of managers lose their job after Europe. I managed not to at St Mirren, although the expectation there is maybe a little bit lower than Aberdeen, but it is a difficult task."

With no midweek European fixtures to juggle next season, Robinson sees a golden opportunity to hit the ground running. But he knows that success hinges on smart recruitment. "The lesson for me is we have to recruit boys who can play in the Scottish Premiership. That is easier said than done, of course, because you don't know until you put them in that environment, but you have to lessen the risk."

The Dons boss is already deep in planning mode, looking for players who can handle the physical and mental demands of Scottish football. "We have to try and get players who can compliment each other, and we have already started that process. I will have a lot of focus on that going forward over the next couple of weeks."

For Aberdeen fans dreaming of a strong start to the new season, Robinson's message is clear: no Europe means no excuses, and the work is already underway to build a squad ready to compete from day one.