Caley Thistle defender Danny Devine has heard manager John Hughes’ warning about new contracts and is determined to prove he is one for the Highland club’s future.
Hughes signed up for another two years and Devine has cre-dited his manager for an improvement in his performances.
Now Hughes’ future is settled the Northern Irish defender is determined to extend his own stay at Caledonian Stadium.
Ahead of today’s game against Hearts at Tynecastle, Devine said: “The players are pleased the manager has decided to stay. We’ve learned a lot from him.
“He’s improved every one of us, on the ball especially. We’re glad we can continue the process of becoming better footballers.
“The pressure is on to continue the progress at the club. It is always good to have a settled camp – and that always starts with the manager.
“Sorting out his future, and him making it clear he wants to stay here, is a big positive. To know he wants to keep building the team makes it easier for the players as now we know what is happening, it will make it easier if talks do come around.
“For any player in the last year of a contract, it is always in the back of their mind to prove his worth.
“I need to do all I can to make sure the club offers me a contract, I have to make their minds up for them.
“That happens from improving every day on the training ground and, come the Saturday, putting in a shift and contributing to the team.”
Devine has been an ever-present for Caley Jags side this season, having taken his chance following captain Gary Warren’s leg break in August.
With Warren now back to full fitness, Devine is up for the challenge of trying to keep his place, and the 23-year-old added: “Maybe results haven’t been so great for a number of reasons, but with us getting players back now things are starting to look good.
“The last two years have been difficult with me as I wasn’t getting much game time due to the form of other players.
“I’m just happy to be playing in the team every week and, hopefully, long may it continue if I keep contributing.”