Stephen Robinson has set a target for Brad Lyons' return from injury and outlined his intention to secure Gavin Molloy's future at Aberdeen FC. The manager hopes the Northern Ireland international will be available for selection when the Dons host St Johnstone next month, providing a timely boost to a squad sitting seventh in the Premiership with eight points from seven games.

Lyons has been sidelined since suffering a knee injury during the opening-day victory over Hearts. Robinson plans to organise a closed-door friendly to help the midfielder regain match sharpness after a period of gradual reintegration into training. "He's coming on," Robinson said. "We're hoping, we're hoping with the games I've just alluded to that he could take part in one of them before the St Johnstone game." The 28-year-old is expected to join full training next week, with the aim of featuring in some capacity against the Saints on October 11th.

Squad recovery progress

Robinson also provided updates on other absentees. Emmanuel Gyamfi, yet to feature this season, is closing in on a comeback. Defender Kristers Tobers is back in full training after missing most of the last year, though the manager and his medical team are reluctant to set a firm timeline for his return. This news comes as Aberdeen look to build on a recent run of one win, three draws, and one loss in their last five league outings, a sequence that includes a 1-1 draw at Hibernian last week.

Molloy contract goal

Away from the treatment room, Robinson confirmed he wants to extend the contract of Gavin Molloy, whose current deal expires at the end of the season. The versatile 24-year-old Irishman, who has filled roles at left-back and left centre-half, scored in the 4-0 win at Motherwell earlier this month and provided the assist for Kevin Nisbet's opener against Hibs. Robinson praised his attitude and potential for growth. "I think Gavin's a manager's dream," he stated. "He reminds me of Marcus Fraser at St Mirren. They just get on with it. They don't complain about anything." The manager admitted formal discussions have not yet begun but signalled his clear desire to keep the player.

Robinson also confirmed there will be no further loan moves for young forward Findlay Marshall this season. With the team preparing for a key home match against sixth-placed St Johnstone, the potential return of Lyons and the prospect of securing Molloy's services represent positive steps. Fans can track the team's progress and view the full fixtures list, including the upcoming clash, on the club's official site. The manager's focus remains on improving a league position that sees them ten points behind leaders Celtic, with top scorer Kevin Nisbet having netted three times so far.

This story first appeared at Daily Record Football