Colin Calderwood insists Hibs are in no rush to secure fans' favourite Derek Riordan on an extended deal.
Easter Road boss not looking to tie down striker anytime soon
Hibernian manager Colin Calderwood insists the club are in no rush to secure fans' favourite Derek Riordan on an extended contract.
The 27-year-old forward, who is out of contract in the summer, is currently in his second Easter Road spell following a stint with Celtic.
Riordan is free to speak to interested parties regarding a free transfer next month, although Calderwood will not be rushed into holding talks with the Edinburgh-born man.
Turkish side Eskisehirspor are reportedly considering a £250,000 bid for Riordan and Hibs may decide to sell in the New Year rather than lose him for free.
Calderwood has told Riordan the club are currently happy with the length of his contract and that it will be nearer the summer before they hold talks over fresh terms.
Understanding
"Derek's out of contract at the end of the season and it will be close to then before we do anything," explained Calderwood.
"We've spoken to him and he understands. He's all right with it. There are others who will see action taken quicker.
"There is a concern that someone signs Derek on a pre-contract but we'll be aware of it. We spoke to Derek and it might happen. If it does, we'll be in the picture to try and compete. But the reality is it might not happen.
"He will be dealt with later just because there are others I want to deal with before. He knows why.
"I spoke to him and said: 'Look, we know where you are in terms of the length of your contract, what you are earning. We just need to talk about it later'. He seemed happy with that.
"Why wouldn't we tie him down earlier? Because I don't think anyone is going to make a decision at the minute. He's going to keep his options open."
