Contract talks with club captain Joe Shaughnessy have been put on hold, St Johnstone manager Tommy Wright has revealed.
But the fact that the January transfer window has closed without the Irishman making a decision on where he wants to play his football next season has given Wright cause for optimism that an extended stay at McDiarmid Park will be his choice.
“We are in communication with Joe’s adviser and as it stands Aberdeen are the only club who have made contact with us,” said the Perth boss.
“With so many midweek games coming up just now we have agreed to have a look at it again once they are out of the way.
“From our point of view that’s a positive thing because it suggests Joe hasn’t made his mind up yet.
“We respect his position and will resume talking when everyone is ready.”
Meanwhile, recent recruits Sean Goss and Niall Keown will both be in Wright’s squad for tomorrow’s lunchtime clash with Celtic.
“Sean played a game last week so he’s fit and will come into the squad,” he said.
“He hasn’t played many first team games but he’s here to play and we’re looking forward to getting him going.
“We have a busy schedule coming up so it’s more competition and undoubted quality he brings.
“Niall Keown will also come into the reckoning. He’s here to show what he can do and force his way in.”
