Hughes eager to keep Murray at Hibs with new deal

The 28-year-old's current contract runs out at the end of this season and the defender is now free to sign a pre-contract agreement with a club elsewhere. However, Murray is an integral part of Hughes' long-term plans and the club has now opened talks with the player over extending his stay.

Murray, who is in his second spell at Easter Road following stints at Norwich City and Rangers, was appointed vice captain at the beginning of this season and Hughes is keen for him to continue in that role.

The Hibs manager said: "I am desperate to keep Ian Murray at the club.

"I think that he showed on Sunday just how valuable that he can be to us, he's a versatile player who always gives you 100 percent.

"He's everything that you could want from a player.

"From my point of view, he's my vice captain, he's a good talker in the dressing room and out on the pitch and he just goes about his business without giving you any bother. He is a man of few words – but when he does speak then you listen because he talks a lot of sense.

"Hopefully, we are getting closer to reaching an agreement, although obviously these things take time."

All in all, Murray has spent eight years of his career at Easter Road and Hughes continued: "I think Ian is one of the players who realise the demands and the expectations that are placed on you at this club now.

"There is a lot going on for him right now, in terms of the team and his personal life because his wife is due their first baby soon but he's always the same.

"I've been delighted with his manner and the contribution that he's made to the side on and off the park and I'd love to keep him here for the long term."