The former Spurs manager was brought in as director of football to assist Roy Aitken, then took over as caretaker manager when the former Scotland midfielder was sacked from the post.

He was a key figure in the appointments of Alex Miller and Ebbe Skovdahl as well as taking responsibility for restructuring the youth set-up at Aberdeen.

Chairman Stewart Milne stated he was sorry to see Burkinshaw leave, saying: 'We have reluctantly agreed to accept Keith's resignation from the board and thank him for his contribution to the club over the last four years.'

Meanwhile, Skovdahl has criticised former chief executive Dave Cormack and accused him of trying to wreck morale ahead of Saturday's opener against Rangers.

Cormack quit the post two months ago for family reasons but he has angered the mild-mannered Dane by criticising the lack of progress in terms of bringing new players to Pittodrie.

United States-based Cormack is still working for the club on a consultancy basis but is certain of a frosty reception from Skovdahl the next time he visits Pittodrie.