John Hughes 'desperate' to keep consistent Murray at Hibs

The defender's contract runs out at the end of the season, meaning he is free to speak to other clubs. The 28-year-old is in his second spell at Easter Road after leaving for Rangers under freedom of contract and then moving on to Norwich. "I am desperate to keep Ian Murray at the club," said Hughes yesterday. "He's a versatile player who always gives you 100 per cent. He's everything that you could want from a player. Hopefully we are getting closer to reaching an agreement, although obviously these things take time."

Meanwhile, Hibs' latest signing, goalkeeper Graeme Smith – who made an impressive debut in Sunday's 1-1 draw with Hearts at Easter Road – says he has no regrets about trying out English football but is delighted to be back in the SPL with Hughes' side.

Smith, who left Motherwell for Brighton before the south-coast team allowed him to return north during this transfer window, said: "I wouldn't rule out going back down later in my career but I have landed on my feet. I wanted to try football in a different league. I don't regret it, but I have learned from it."

Former Glenavon midfielder Sammy Stewart, 19, has left Aberdeen by mutual consent after failing to make a first-team breakthrough.