Aberdeen have begun work on the first phase of their new £50m Kingsford stadium and training complex.

The Dons received permission earlier this year to build a new 20,000-seater stadium and training facilities across the city from their current Pittodrie home.

Aberdeen manager Derek McInnes and chairman Stewart Milne put the first spades in the ground on Tuesday as the green light was given for construction work to begin on the Kingsford site.

The first phase of the development will see a new training pavilion, groundsman's accommodation, three professional training pitches, two 3G pitches and two grass pitches installed.

Milne is hopeful the work will be complete by summer 2019.

McInnes said: "This is a hugely significant milestone for the Club as we embark on building long-awaited, best-in-class training facilities.

"Since I took on the role of manager at AFC I have been campaigning for better facilities so there's a huge sense of relief and excitement today to see work beginning on-site.

"Dedicated, purpose-built facilities, adjacent to our new stadium, will be a major boost for the players and the coaching staff.

"They will help us attract and retain talent as well as providing an excellent base for community engagement and footballing excellence in the north of Scotland that will inspire future generations."