BERNARD WANTS TO STAY A DON

Talks have not yet begun between Bernard and the club but the Pittodrie side insist they do not want the player to leave and risk losing thim for nothing in the summer on a Bosman style free transfer.

Dons boss Ebbe Skovdahl has already tied down defenders Russell Anderson and Kevin McNaughton to long-term deals and has also opened talks with star player Eoin Jess.

"The manager is working his way through the players whose deals are due to expire," said a club spokesman. "Just because a player hasn't been spoken to yet doesn't mean he's not wanted."

The 27-year-old former Oldham player is one of 12 players in the last year of their contracts, but he is adamant that he does not want to leave the Scottish Premier League outfit.

"There hasn't been any word on my contract," said Bernard. "I'm surprised because other players have been in talks. I would be happy to stay with the club if everything was in place for the future."