HEARTS manager Jim Jefferies last night pleaded with Paul Ritchie to sort out his future before the Scottish Cup final.
The 22-year-old defender has been a major success for the Tynecastle side this season and has attracted the attention of several top clubs. He is currently in talks with Jefferies over a new deal, but the Hearts manager wants a conclusion soon.
Jefferies said: ''His agent said he was happy with the deal on offer. He's put it to Paul and now it's up to him to make a decision.
''If he decides to stay then that would be welcomed, but if he wants to keep his options open, there's nothing we can do about it.
''If any club comes in for him and Paul moves then we'd receive a compensation fee. Hopefully, he will make the decision to stay and, hopefully, that will come this week.
''Paul has had an outstanding season, but, like one or two others his form has dipped recently.
''Maybe the doubts over his future have been been preying on his mind and he hasn't performed as well as we know he can.
''That's why he should make a decision and relax and be in the right frame of mind with the final coming up.''
Meanwhile, Hearts captain Gary Locke faces an agonising fight to be fit for the final. The 22-year-old missed the match with Aberdeen at Pittodrie on Saturday after having suffered a reaction to a knee injury.
Locke is also struggling to be available for this weekend's final premier division match with Dunfermline at Tynecastle.
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