Martin Boyle admitted the Hibernian dressing room is as desperate as the Easter Road faithful to see international teammate Jackson Irvine sign on in Leith beyond the end of the season.
The 28-year-old turned in a man of the match display at Ross County as the men in green and white overcame a small slide in form to ease six points clear of Aberdeen in the race for the Scottish Premiership’s third spot.
Jack Ross was able to coax the Socceroo out of a ten-month hiatus from the game following his departure from Hull City in January, but only on a short-term deal until the end of the campaign.
On the pitch, his performances have helped bolster a struggling Hibs midfield, while Irvine's eclectic personality has made him a hit with the Easter Road regulars off it.
The pair have fostered a good understanding for their club in recent weeks and Boyle said he would be delighted to see that continue into Europe next season.
He immediately linked up with the winger after previously combining at international level, assisting him for the clincher in a 2-0 win at Dundee United.
However, Boyle conceded Irvine’s form was likely to attract suitors for his signature if no extension to his current deal can be reached.
“Jackson’s been great for us and I think the fans are dying to get his signature for longer,” told Australian broadcaster SBS' The World Game.
“Obviously we don’t know what’s going to happen at the end of the season, but he’s been a fantastic addition to the squad.
“He’s been exactly what we needed: he creates chances, he gets his head up and he’s great in the air. He’s got everything.
“He’s also an experienced player, he’s played at a very good level and is a top international.
“I’m sure if he keeps playing the way he is he will attract other attention, which might be good for him.
“But we’d certainly like to keep him here, if at all possible.”
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