Kingston would rather have stayed at Hearts but has plenty of options

LARRY KINGSTON is disappointed by Hearts' decision not to renew his contract and would have liked to stay at Tynecastle.

But representatives of the Ghanaian midfielder claim he has four options for next season involving clubs in the UK, Greece and Russia.

Hearts opted not to offer Kingston an extension to the three-year agreement he signed in 2007. One of their highest earning players, he was released last month and was then excluded from Ghana's World Cup squad to complete a miserable few weeks. However, his salary demands have not deterred suitors south of the border or in Europe, according to Moscow-based agent Ayrat Imamov.

"We didn't contact the club (Hearts], now it is up to the player what to do," he explained. "We already have four options for him. I don't want to comment on the clubs, but the options are not only in Scotland. We have options in England, Greece and Russia.

"This is professional football, it is not a big problem for the player. For sure, he would love to play with Hearts but that is life in sport. I think it's more important to be fit and mentally strong for football.

"He is a professional player. It was a simple situation for the club to give him a contract or not. Hearts didn't offer anything to him but we are still open.

"I am not sure they will give him a contract now or if they can pay the salary. It is a decision for the club. His family are in Scotland, he has a house there, so it is not only a question of money. If Hearts were to make a reasonable offer they would be the first option. We would think about Hearts first."

Kingston is certain to be plying his trade elsewhere next season as Hearts have no intention motioning the 29-year-old back to Edinburgh and have already identified potential midfield replacements.

Bristol City this week rejected reports Hearts had contacted them regarding Paul Hartley's availability, although the Evening News has learned Tynecastle officials did speak with representatives of Hartley almost three weeks ago.

It remains to be seen if they will follow up their interest in the 33-year-old who would be receptive to a return to Tynecastle. In that instance, Bristol City would expect a transfer fee since Hartley's contract runs for another 12 months.