MARK Russell is weighing up his options after tentative talks with new Morton manager Ray McKinnon.

The 22-year-old, who came through the club’s development squad, made his debut for the Greenock side back in 2013.

The left-back, who can play in numerous positions, made 36 appearances for Jim Duffy’s side last season.

As he is under the age of 23, Morton would be due compensation if Russell was to leave the club, but with the player only recently returning from holiday, he only spoke to new manager Ray McKinnon last week.

Russell told the Tele: “I had a chat with him on Tuesday, he was just touching base as I was just back from my holiday. 

“He messaged me as soon as he got the job to have a catch up with me and meet me face-to-face, but I was away on holiday.

“He said there was an offer for me, he was talking about his plans for this season and to give me time to speak to my family and let him know what he’s going to do.”

While the youngster has been given time to think over his future, with the new season fast approaching and the players due to return for pre-season on Thursday, it means McKinnon will be wanting an answer soon from Russell and the other players he has spoken to.

He added: “I’ve not really had much time to think about it, but I know pre-season starts back on Thursday so I’m just talking it over with my family and my agent and see what we think.

“I know there’s been interest from other clubs but I leave that to my agent. 

“I’m just waiting to see what the club offer me, and obviously if there are any other offers I’ll make my mind up over that.

“I’m just taking my time and enjoying my time off at the moment and if Ray speaks to me in the next few days I’ll need to make my mind up. He obviously can’t wait too long in case I decide not to sign.”

The 22-year-old was utilised in a number of positions last season by manager Jim Duffy.

If Russell does decide to sign on again for next season, he’s hoping to get more consistent game time in one position to try and make it his own.

He said: “I don’t mind where I play, under Duffy I was getting moved about everywhere. 

“I don’t think he knew what my best position was.

“I spoke with Ray and he says he’ll look into that more during pre-season if I was to sign to see what my best position was, so obviously he’s not fully made his mind up on me either.

“I don’t really have a preferred position, I’d quite like a run of games in one position rather than being moved about each week, one week being left-back, one week being left-mid or centre-mid.”