Hughes losing patience with undecided Caley stars

JOHN HUGHES is demanding answers from Caley Thistle’s out-of-contract stars as he begins to shape his playing squad for 2015 and beyond. Key performers such as Billy McKay, Josh Meekings and Marley Watkins will be free to talk to other clubs next month and have so far dragged their heels over new deals. Speaking ahead of tomorrow’s Highland derby in Dingwall, Hughes (right) made it clear his patience is wearing thin — and urged the players concerned to make up their minds soon. The Inverness manager has seen Aberdeen and Birmingham City target Graeme Shinnie reject new terms outright and it seems likely the Scotland Under-21 cap is destined for the exit door come May. But hot property McKay — linked with Rotherham, Bradford City and Hearts — is among 10 players still to finalise where they will be playing next season. Established first-team figures like Greg Tansey, David Raven and Danny Devine are among those in advanced discussions with the club. Hughes said: ‘We have to move forwards. The club are doing everything they can to make sure they can get these boys tied up. ‘I think it is time they either commit or don’t commit. ‘It is going to have to come down to that. ‘The club can’t keep holding out olive branches to them. ‘If it’s not going to be these guys taking the club forward, then we need to get our work done. ‘I totally understand they want to get the best possible deals in terms of security and length of contract. I’ve been there myself as a player and it can take time, but sometimes you need to say it’s gone far enough.’ Most of the Inverness

players have stated how much they enjoy the club and lifestyle in the Highlands— and Hughes warned them to think hard before jeopardising their situations. He said: ‘I don’t know if it is affecting some of them, but they’re old enough and wise enough to realise what a good place they’re in. ‘The grass is not always greener elsewhere. ‘Maybe their agents are trying to twist their arms, but perhaps they need to say to them that this is where they want to be.’ County boss Jim McIntyre reckons closing down Celtic will give his side an extra swell of belief for the clash with Caley. The Staggies’ manager was just as thrilled with concentration levels shown in the 0-0 Parkhead draw with the champions as he was with the spirit and commitment. McIntyre, whose side sit at the foot of the table, said: ‘We were very disciplined against Celtic. ‘You can only take positives from going to Parkhead and getting a point and the biggest thing for me was the concentration. ‘That has got to be the same against any team we play, not just Celtic.’