Contract rebels get more time

The first team quartet could quit the club when the Januarytransfer window opens at midnight.

They had originally been set a cut off point of New Year's Day tomake up their minds but boss Jimmy Calderwood has revealed they'vebeen given more time.

"We are going to hold talks with them again as we need finalclarification on their plans," said Calderwood.

"However, it's difficult to do that this week with the busyschedule we have at this time of year.

"That's why I'm going to wait until next Monday then we will makea final announcement about what is happening.

"We need to get things sorted out and we're hopeful of a positiveoutcome."

Jamie Langfield hasalready penned a new deal and the club hadhoped his decision would convince the others to stay.

Calderwood plans to revamp his squad in January but any moveswill be governed by what Hart, Diamond, Nicholson and Clark decide.

He would face a real test of his scouting skills to replace allfour on Bosman budget deals although he has already been on scoutingmissions south of the border.

However, he remains confident of persuading his stars to stay andis also ready to open talks with chairman Stewart Milne about hisown future.

Calderwood added:

"Everyone knows that I love the club and the city but I want aninjection of quality into my team so I'll see what the plans are."

Hart and Diamond are both doubtful for the Caley clash onWednesday with hip and ankle problems. Andrew Considine may alsomiss out along with Jackie McNamara.