Duk had done his Aberdeen time as Jimmy Thelin reveals thinking behind Dons departures
The former Benfica man headed to La Liga while Angus MacDonald, James McGarry and Slobodan Rubezic also left
Jimmy Thelin has insisted it was clear to everybody that Duk had done his time at Aberdeen and it was time for a natural parting of the ways.
The controversial attacker finally sealed his exit on transfer deadline, as he made the move to La Liga side Leganes. The Cape Verde international was in his third season with the Dons and was set to leave on freedom of contract in the summer. Duk had failed to get back to his first season levels and in the summer he went AWOL and tried to force a move before he apologised and returned to work under new boss Thelin.
The Swede said: "I think Duk when he arrived in the late part of the summer he behaved really well and contributed to the team. This is normal in football that some players come and some players leave. He gets a good opportunity. He has done his time here now and moves on.
"So we had a good chat and it was clear for everybody that it was time. We wish him all the best and good luck for the future."
Duk joined Angus MacDonald, who joined Exeter City in going out the Pittodrie exit door in the last window. James McGarry also headed to Greek side Kallithea. The New Zealand international has moved on loan for the season.
Thelin explained with Jack MacKenzie in front of him and Alexander Jensen able to play in either full-back position it was unfair to deny the 26-year-old the chance to get more regular football.
"It's more about where you are in your career,” Thelin explained. "The playing time and what you want to build right now.
"Jensen, we saw a specific role for him and what he can help us with. Also, because James is 26 now and needs the rhythm of games.
"That’s why there was the loan because you also have to think about the squad and the team. Sometimes when you feel you have to be honest. When you feel like you don't have as much time here it's better you go here to play more to keep the level and progress in your career."
Fellow defender Slobodan Rubezic has also returned to former club Novi Pazar on-loan for the season. The Montenegro international hasn't played since he asked to be substituted against Hearts.
Aberdeen recalled young Adam Emslie from a successful loan at Cove Rangers on deadline day. Emslie is back training with Thelin’s first-team but the League One pushers haven’t given up hope that the winger could return before the close of the domestic loan market.