Wright hints at more new deals after Alston extends St Johnstone stay

Tommy Wright has hinted at further new deals at St Johnstone after the club extended the stay of Blair Alston earlier this week.

The midfielder signed a one-year contract extension in Perth on Wednesday, while there have been reports that up to three others could also be in line for new deals.

First-team regulars Scott Tanser, Murray Davidson and Steven Anderson are all out of contract this summer and are reported to be in talks to extend their stays at McDiarmid Park.

But - while Wright admitted there were some discussions ongoing - the manager refused to confirm whether anything was near to conclusion.

That is ongoing,'' he told Press Association Sport.But until deals are agreed, there will be no announcement.

There are players out of contract that will get new deals and be offered them, but until they are agreed there will be nothing coming from the club because it's pointless until the business is concluded.''

St Johnstone are expected to be busy in the summer transfer market with a number of players already confirmed to be moving on and after a frustrating campaign which sees them eighth in the Premiership with three games to play.

Wright has already made it clear that he intends to play Alston in a more central role next season rather than wide right as he has often been forced into this year.

The departure of Michael O'Halloran has left the club in need of wingers and Wright accepts that will be a position to focus on during the summer, but one player he has denied talking to is Hearts goalkeeper Jack Hamilton.

The 24-year-old has been linked with a move to Perth this week to replace outgoing veteran Alan Mannus, but Wright moved to play down rumours.

No it's not coming from us,'' he said.Once this time of the season comes, things get said in the paper.

I don't know if it is agents or Hearts, but I have never made any contact with Hearts regarding Jack Hamilton so I don't know where that has come from.''

Saints face Motherwell on Saturday in what could be a crucial match in the battle for seventh place in the league.

After six successive seasons in the top six, Wright is still hoping to finish as high as possible despite a comparatively disappointing year.

He said: We can't afford to lose this game if we are to finish seventh.

A win would help us, but Motherwell are in possession of it and they will see that they are favourites.

I would like to be in their position but at least we are in with a chance of seventh place.'