Hibs boss wants Fletcher to stay

Steven Fletcher contributed to Hibernian's 4-1 win over Motherwell.

Hibernian manager Mixu Paatelainen says striker Steven Fletcher should stay at least one more season at Easter Road.

Fletcher scored in last week's win over Motherwell and has recently been the subject of transfer speculation.

Paatelainen maintains there have been no official approaches for the 21-year-old, and hopes none will come.

"He has plenty room to improve and I feel that maybe a year or so after working hard, then maybe the time is right for him to go," said Paatelainen.

"Steven himself is very committed to the club," added the Hibernian manager.

He has plenty room to improve and I feel that maybe a year or so after working hard, then maybe the time is right for him to go Mixu Paatelainen

"He trains fantastically well. He has to work hard on the training ground and during matches."

The Hibs boss also says that Russell Latapy has been a terrific role model for young players in Scotland.

The Falkirk midfielder is a former team mate of the Hibs boss form their days together at Easter Road and Paatelainen says the Trinidad and Tobago star was always keen to pass his experience on to younger players.

Falkirk are holding a special 'Russell Latapy day' on Saturday at the league match against Hibs to give both sets of fans the opportunity to pay tribute to the player on the occasion of his 40th birthday.

Paatelainen added that Latapy's knowledge of the game should set him up taking on a managerial or coaching role.

"He has a very bright brain, he has a fantastic football brain," said Paatelainen.

"He's not afraid to try things, and I'm sure he will get his chance if he wants that somewhere along the line.

"If that happens, we will wish him all the best."