Hibs boss Lee Johnson sets 'turn the screw' deadline over Ryan Porteous contract decision

Hibs manager Lee Johnson will press Ryan Porteous on an answer regarding his long-term future going into the turn of the year.

The Scotland internationalist is out of contract this summer but has found his value increasing recently on the back of impressive performances for both club and country.

His debut for Steve Clarke’s side has been followed up with notable displays for Hibs with the 23-year-old scoring the only goal of the game on Saturday against Motherwell as the Leith side moved into third spot in the cinch Premiership.

“We’ve offered him a really good contract, a strong one,” said Johnson. “There is no immediate pressure from me for an answer but as we near January the screw has to turn on that a little bit.

Hibs defender Ryan Porteous is all smiles after scoring the winner against Motherwell. (Photo by Ewan Bootman / SNS Group)

“We think the right thing for Hibs is obviously securing Ryan and that’s why we’ve made such a strong offer but if not the world moves on and we’ll make sure we have a succession plan.”

Porteous had earlier been involved in a pivotal moment in the game when Motherwell’s Connor Shields clumsily wrestled him to the ground before he headed Martin Boyle’s deflected cross into the net.

His bravery in putting his head in – both players were floored after clashing – was described by Johnson as indicative of the spirit he lends to the current Hibs side.

“The main man at the moment in terms of the limelight is Porto,” enthused Johnson. “The commitment and the bravery to score that goal…it was a helluva goal and I’m looking forward to watching it back.

“I think at the moment that epitomises him, committed, winning challenges and a goal threat as well in the box. I think he took a few whacks, he was on the floor a fair bit. I think he’s alright, I think he was playing the hero on that one [at the goal]!”

Porteous takes centre stage for Sauzee-inspired Hibs in Motherwell win