Lee Johnson says Ryan Porteous is 'absolutely' available to face Rangers on Thursday night as he opened up on his future with the January transfer window looming.
The Easter Road club have confirmed that the Scotland international won't be penning an extending contract in Leith. His current terms are up in the summer meaning he is free to talk to any interest clubs over a pre-contract in a matter of weeks. A decision on whether to cash in next month or retain the defender has to be made with the Hibees boss weighing up the pros and cons of any potential deal.
Despite all the talk surrounding his future and his decision to not commit beyond this season at the club, Johnson says their relationship has stayed 'honest' throughout the process and the defender has been the 'perfect professional' with the pair enjoying a very good relationship. Explaining the latest on Porteous, Johnson told Sky Sports: “An assessment will have to be made based on the financial offer that we receive.
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“You have to weigh up the benefit of keeping Ryan here and competing to fight for those European places. A cup run is possible in the Scottish Cup. At the same time, the succession plan has to be considered.
"If the fee is right and we’re able to reinvest it in a younger player or a player that could be as good as Ryan, then we have to look at that opportunity as well.
“What I would say is that Ryan has been fantastic. He’s been the perfect professional if you like and absolutely he's available for selection going into Thursday.
"Myself and Ryan have a very good relationship and it's stayed honest all the way through. I've got no issue with him personally.”
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