JC: No worries over Fletcher

Published on Thursday 29 November 2007 12:07

HIBS boss John Collins insisted today he has no intention of taking Steven Fletcher out of the firing line and backed the young striker to continue his rich vein of form for the club despite speculation over his future.

Talks over a contract extension have reached a stalemate in recent weeks although Collins has publicly stated his desire to hold on to his top goalscorer this season.

However, Fletcher's agent, Scott Fisher, has hinted that his client may have to look elsewhere should he not receive a vastly-improved deal.

The youngster, who has been in sparkling form this term, is tied to the Easter Road outfit until 2011 but, after six goals in 11 starts, Hibs are hopeful of securing him on a longer, improved contract.

Fletcher is regarded as one of the hottest properties in the country and just last week made his Scotland B debut against the Republic of Ireland.

There are concerns, though, that speculation over where he will be playing his football long term could affect his displays on the pitch.

But Collins is confident that Fletcher can handle the attention and has vowed to continue playing him as Hibs look to continue their impressive start to the campaign.

"I spoke to Fletch the other day and he's perfectly happy at the club and wants to stay," said Collins.

"I've no thoughts at all about taking him out the firing line." Collins also revealed that his squad have a clean bill of health ahead of Sunday's trip to face Aberdeen at Pittodrie.

Midfielder Guillaume Beuzelin has recovered from a niggling injury that saw him limp off against Gretna earlier this month and is in contention to return to the starting XI after missing last weekend's 2-2 draw with Dundee United. And striker Clayton Donaldson, who suffered a broken finger recently, is also back in the running for a place in Collins' side after taking part in training this week.

The availability of all his players leaves Collins with the sort of selection headache that every manager wants and the Easter Road manager has challenged his fringe players to force their way back into contention.

"We have every single player fit and don't have one injury in the whole squad," said the delighted Collins.

"Clayton has trained all week and is fine now while Boozy is also available.

"We can only play ten outfield players at any time and we have a first-team squad of 24 players fit just now so somebody will be disappointed.

"That's part and parcel of football though and it's up to them to get back in."