Dundee star biding his time over future

MIDFIELDER Mark O’Hara is biding his time on a decision over his future – and Dundee are still hoping it’s with them.

The Dark Blues have been trying to tie down the out-of-contract 22-year-old on a new deal since January but the Tele understands O’Hara is waiting to see what options present themselves.

The versatile midfielder has been linked with a move to St Mirren, with Buddies boss Jack Ross reportedly keen on the player.

However, Paisley may not be his destination next season.

A move back west might suit, though, with Motherwell also registering an interest over the past few months.

His size and athleticism, too, would be an asset for clubs down south and that’s a more likely destination should he decide to depart Dens Park.

In two seasons at Dundee, where the former Kilmarnock right-back was converted to an attacking midfielder, O’Hara has knocked in 11 goals in 71 appearances.

Meanwhile, the Dark Blues announced the departure of left-back Kevin Holt among nine players leaving.

And he could be one former Dee that ends up at St Mirren.

Surplus to requirements f or manager Neil McCann, Holt impressed in his final few weeks at the club and scored the vital goal that defeated Hamilton to put the club on the brink of safety.

With only one recognised full-back in his squad, Holt’s size, ability on the ball and experience of the top flight ticks a lot of boxes for Saints manager Ross.

Assistant manager James Fowler, too, was Holt’s manager at former club Queen of the South and would join former team-mate Ian McShane at the club.

Former Athletic Bilbao man Jon Aurtenetxe is also heading out the door.

A starter in the 2012 Europa League Final, Aurtenetxe impressed initially at Dens Park, but his form dipped drastically as the season wore on.

Another Basque defender, Julen Etxabeguren, has also departed, along with Bulgarian centre-half Kosta Gadzhalov.

Nicky Low’s deal has come to an end, too, with the club also releasing youngster Jordan Piggott and keeper Jeremy Malherbe, while Simon Murray and A-Jay Leitch-Smith have returned to their parent clubs.

Mark O’Hara’s contract at Dundee ends this summer and the 22-year-old midfielder is free to speak with other clubs about his future.