Livingston captain Craig Halkett admits last summer taught him that patience is key in weighing up his future – and insists he will not make any rash moves this time.
The defender is a pre-contract target for Hearts following an outstanding season for the Premiership newcomers.
Halkett was not short of lucrative offers at the end of the previous term either, but eventually decided last June that staying with the Lions for at least another year was best for his career.
Having played in every single minute – 2,970 to be exact – of all of Livingston’s 33 games this season, the former Rangers trainee feels vindicated about remaining loyal to the West Lothian outfit.
Halkett, who is hoping to help bolster Livingston’s bid to finish in the top six with victory at St Mirren today, added: “I bided my time last summer and it’s the exact same this time. I’ve got an agent and I leave it to him. You can’t let it get to you as it can affect your performances.
“I finished last season not sure what I’d do. I obviously knew Livingston were top of the list and I’m thankful for what the club have done.
“It’s worked wonders this season. It’s been a great season as a team and personally so I don’t think I’ll be too quick to jump into things.
“This was my first season playing the top flight of Scottish football so I was a wee bit sceptical about how it would go.
“Personally you don’t know if you’ll handle it or shine.
“I think it was crucial I stayed and played as many games as possible. I could have left for another team and not have played as much or it maybe wouldn’t have gone so well.
“I feel like I’ve come on leaps and bounds. At the start of the season you’re playing and you edge yourself in.
“But now you have 30-odd games at this level and get a bit more comfortable.”
