Scotlandstay preference forpopescu
Mihai Popescu doesn’t know where he will be when next season begins – but Hamilton’s Hearts loanee would ideally like to stay within Scottish football.
The 28-year-old has been a key player for head coach Stuart Taylor this season after joining on loan from Tynecastle last summer.
He has worn the captain’s armband on occasion and impressed with a range of strong performances in the heart of Accies’defence during their first season back in the Championship.
They’ll look to cement their spot in sixth when they travel to Inverness for their final game of this term on Friday.
Taylor has already confirmed he would like to keep the Jambos player in South Lanarkshire permanently but talks on his future won’t take place until after this weekend.
For the defender, he would like to find a way to remain in Scotland, but knows he may have to go elsewhere if the contracts don’t work for him.
Popescu explained:“i spoke with the gaffer a couple of weeks ago and he’s told me he wants me to stay.
“I am obviously happy here because I play a lot. I am doing okay but there’s still one more game to go this season, so I will speak with the gaffer after that. We will see what we can do after Friday.
“We love Scotland. My wife loves being here and our first choice would be to continue here in Scotland. But if nothing is coming, we will see what options we have.”
Contracted to Hearts for another month, Popescu says conversations will be held between his representative and the Jambos. One way or another, clarity is being sought as he approaches 29.
The Romanian added:“i am not a young player anymore, I will be turning 29 soon. I am looking for a good contract and we will see what we can do from that. I would then look to build for the next contract because I want to play over the age of 35, that is my plan.
“I will continue to do my best to try and catch a good contract.”