Steven Naismith has held talks with Josh Ginnelly as he mulls over his Hearts future.
The attacker is in the final weeks of his contract at the Tynecastle club, but is yet to put pen to paper on a fresh agreement. Discussions have taken place over extending his stay in the capital with the 26-year-old now weighing up his options.
Interim Jambos boss Naismith has delivered his opinion to the forward in an open and honest talk. The final decision will ultimately come down to the man who has 11 goals to his name so far this season. He told Edinburgh Evening News: “I've had a chat with him but it's going to be up to Gino and the club.
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“I've given my view and it's an honest view. I haven't tried to pull the wool over his eyes in any way.
“I experienced moving clubs, I experienced very good moments at clubs and how quickly it can change. I gave Josh my opinion and I have a good relationship with him. As players, we played well together and got on and I think he respects me. Ultimately, it will be down to him.
“Gino's performances this season have been the most consistent since he's been here, and probably the most consistent in his career. That puts him in a position where he's got that leverage to go to the club or whoever and get the best deal possible.
“When you are younger, that predominantly comes down to money, but as you get older there are more factors to it than just money. I think Gino is sensible enough to weigh it all up before making his decision.”
Hearts face St Mirren this weekend in a huge clash with a boost on the injury front.
Naismith added: “We are still assessing Michael Smith, Garang Kuol should be back fit after illness, and Natty Atkinson will have a full week's training.
"Two or three boys were out ill at the start of last week. I'm not of a mind to rush anybody back into the team, although in some circumstances you will. I feel we have enough quality in the squad that we can cover most areas.”
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