Hughes keeps Aberdeen waiting over decision

Published on Wednesday 1 July 2009 22:52

ABERDEEN manager Mark McGhee admits he is no closer to signing Stephen Hughes as the midfielder "hedges his bets" over his future.

McGhee made the out-of-contract Motherwell midfielder his priority target when he joined Aberdeen from the Steelmen. But Hughes is considering his options amid interest from Hearts and clubs in England, while he has still not ruled out staying at Fir Park.

McGhee is also chasing Plymouth Argyle midfielder Jim Paterson, another of his former players at Motherwell.

The Aberdeen manager said: "Stephen Hughes is simply hedging his bets – we have not been able to force a decision out of Stephen Hughes. Jim Paterson is a player we are interested in. But we are waiting to speak to Plymouth again, I'm waiting to hear from Paul Sturrock. Those are the only two that are active in terms of trying to bring them here at this moment."

McGhee, who was impressed with the "enthusiasm" of his new players when pre-season training began yesterday, is exploring other avenues though. "We're further forward, but I'm not about to sign someone," he added. "We're talking to people, we're lining up trials, we're talking to managers and agents.

"Eventually we will sign some players and the important thing is they are better players than the ones we have got. I want to improve the team, not the bench."