Livingston boss David Martindale says he’s made it clear to winger Alan Forrest that he wants him to stay at the club.
But the gaffer insists he’ll not be putting any pressure on the 25-year-old to sign a new deal with the Tony Macaroni Arena outfit.
The former Ayr United man turned down the chance of a move to St Johnstone during the transfer window after having expressed a desire to leave the Lions - who he joined prior to the start of last season.
Martindale has hailed the winger’s performances in the two games since making the decision to reject a move to Perth. He netted the winner against Hibs last weekend and turned in a brilliant display in defeat against the Saints at home on Tuesday night.
Martindale says: “I had a wee chat with Alan and told him I want him here and he’s part of my plans. I’d like to try and keep him but I don’t won't put pressure on him.
“There was a weight lifted off his shoulders at the Hibs game. He was incredible and looked as if he was happy being a Livingston player because all the noise had gone.
“He had a big decision to make and once he made that decision, he just looked to be happy playing for Livingston.
“He was great on Tuesday again and I told him how much he’s part of my plans and how much I want him, but the next step is Alan’s to take. I’ve told him if it’s something he’s interested in then we’ll make him the best offer we can but the next move comes from Alan.”
He added: “January last year and again in the summer we were in the same situation. I don’t think any the transfer windows have done either of us any good because his form’s maybe been a wee bit inconsistent.
“I’d love Alan just to come in and say ‘look, let’s give it a couple of years and see where it takes us’ because I think we’ve made him a better player and we’re the right club for him.
“He’s a young player and I want him to be enjoying his football. If he wants a further conversation, he knows where my door is and we can have that chat.”
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