McInnes may be forced into Nizzy approach as Shanks mulls contract

DEREK McINNES insists a decision from Lawrence Shankland on his Hearts future is becoming a matter of urgency with the Jambos keeping tabs on Kevin Nisbet as a potential alternative.

- By Graeme Young

DEREK McINNES insists a decision from Lawrence Shankland on his Hearts future is becoming a matter of urgency - with the Jambos keeping tabs on Kevin Nisbet as a potential alternative.

Gorgie captain Shankland, below, is out of contract at Tynecastle and yet to accept a new deal as he also considers other options available to him, with West Brom and two Saudi Pro League teams keen.

McInnes whose side host Aberdeen in their Premiership opener on Monday, August 4 believes Hearts is still Shankland's best bet but admits a decision needs to be made “sooner rather than later”.

And if they fail in a bid to convince Shankland to remain in Gorgie then his Scotland team-mate and ex-Hibs man Nisbet is under consideration.