LAWRENCE SHANKLAND knows Aberdeen will be heading off on an attempted trophy trail this season.

But he is sure his decision to sacrifice being part of that pursuit to come to Paisley is the right one as he seeks first-team football.

The forward joined St Mirren earlier in the week on a season-long loan in an attempt to get game time under his belt and show what he can do after struggling to break into Derek McInnes’ plans.

Shankland enjoyed just two starts for the Dons last campaign and a further 15 substitute appearances.

But now he is a Saint for the season, the former Queen’s Park man is out to prove he has what it takes to score goals and impress in black and white before returning north.

“It’s all about getting game time and my decision was based on where I would play the most matches,” he said. “When I heard what the gaffer had in mind fo me, I was pleased.

“Derek McInnes spoke to me while Aberdeen were still in the Europa League and told me that it would benefit me to go out on loan.

“Leaving Aberdeen was a big decision to make because they’re going to do well this season and I want to be part of that. However, the first-team appearances I’ll get here will help me to go back there and play for them.

“I need to develop more before I’m ready to play for Aberdeen. My opportunities to play for them this season were going to be limited and, at this stage of my career, I’ll learn more from playing than I will from watching.”

Shankland was in the stand on Tuesday as St Mirren went out of the League Cup in a 3-2 defeat to Livingston.

The result was a painful one to take for Ian Murray’s men who took an early lead.

It will be the same opposition on Ladbrokes Championship duty today in Paisley, but Shankland is sure the Buddies can get a better outcome this time round.

He said: “That [Tuesday] didn’t put me off because I saw the number of opportunities they created and it was only silly mistakes at the back which cost them goals and the game.

“If that can be tightened up then I don’t think we’re far away from moving in the right direction.

“Playing them again at home straight gives the boys the chance to get their own back so, hopefully, we’ll turn them over.”