Hibs: Clubs must up fee for Hibs captain Jones

BRISTOL CITY have become the latest side to be linked with a summer move for Rob Jones but the Hibs skipper's agent Gary Gill today admitted that any potential suitors may have to up their valuation of the player.

Gill conceded that the fact his client still has a year to run on his contract, combined with his performances against Rangers and Celtic in recent weeks, has served to increase the price tag on the player's head.

Despite the fact Jones still has another 12 months left on his current deal, he has been linked with moves to a number of clubs, including Nottingham Forest, West Bromwich Albion, Derby County and now Bristol City.

And Gill confirmed: "A lot of clubs have shown an interest – Championship teams and the better ones from League One are keen.

"Rob has never hidden the fact he's interested in going back to England.

"There is potential there this summer for Rob to move on, but the fact he has a year left on his contract will have to be reflected in his fee."

Meanwhile, Hibs legend Pat Stanton today urged Steven Fletcher to remain at Easter Road for at least another season to continue to develop his career.

Like Jones, the young striker is expected to quit the club in the summer with a number of Scottish and English Premier League sides believes to be chasing his signature.

While admitting that the lure of Premiership wages can be very persuasive, Stanton believes that Fletcher's long-term career would benefit more from staying with Hibs for the next 12 months.

"Good players move on, and there is nothing the club can do about that," said Stanton. "The minute a player hears he can treble his wages elsewhere, what is there to think about? The lad is bound to be restless. But then there is the other side as well. Far too many players leave too early. Not just here, they leave other teams to go to big clubs. And their career starts to drift.

"It depends where you go, and the demands that are placed on you.

"If Steven Fletcher was to leave here and go to the English Premiership, he might find it difficult. Even Andriy Shevchenko found it hard.

"The worry for anyone is that if an offer comes in, and it is turned down, then their form might slip, and the chance is gone.

"You can understand the player's point of view. But another year won't do him any harm. Not only will he be ready to go, but he will go with the fans' blessing. But judging the right moment is easier said than done.

"Don't get me wrong – it's a big decision for a player. He might think 'this club is holding me back'. Maybe the club are holding you back, but sometimes it can be for your own good. A good idea is to go and seek advice from an experienced ex-player. But try telling a young man to hold on for a season. It's difficult."