Aberdeen manager Derek McInnes has paid tribute to the patience shown by attacker Scott Vernon but has yet to decide on whether the Englishman will be offered a contract extension.
The 30-year-old netted all three goals in the 3-1 victory against Dundee United at Tannadice on Tuesday in his first start since January.
Adam Rooney’s arrival has limited the Englishman’s game time but Vernon took full advantage of a rare start when Rooney was ruled out of Tuesday’s match because of an ankle injury.
Vernon, who joined the Dons in 2010, is out of contract at the end of the season and McInnes has not indicated whether he will be kept on.
The Aberdeen manager said: “I have a decision to make on a few people. Contracts for a lot of players will be dealt with once we know what we have done this season. We are nearly there now. I will get round to speaking to everyone out of contract next week.
“Scott was fantastic, led the line well, put himself about and was a goal threat. He has had to be patient because I have been pleased with what Adam Rooney has given us. Credit to Scott as he has had to wait for that opportunity but the misfortune of Adam gave Scott a chance and he took it.
“He is a really important player, as the whole squad has been this season. Some have played more than others. Sometimes it can be difficult for these players as when the team wins they feel even further away from it. They are paid to be ready and Scott more than anyone always does extra to keep his fitness levels up and make sure he is ready.”
Vernon hopes to remain with the Dons but knows Sunday’s match against Motherwell could be the final time he plays at Pittodrie. He said: “I haven’t featured too much since Adam has come in and hit the ground running.
“He has scored goals, so I have had to wait and when my chance comes, like I did on Tuesday, I am determined to get out there and make a statement. It is strange because we are so late in the season and nothing has been discussed. When that conversation happens then it happens. I will just play my football, train hard and just get on with it.
“I have always said I want to play football. I hate that feeling when you get in your car on a Saturday and you haven’t contributed. The club has to make a decision and then, if it comes to it, I have to make a decision. I love playing here. I want to play football and I want to play more.”