Scot Craig Gordon ‘isn’t pushing’ for a loan from Hearts

Gordon admitted his retirement was “definitely under discussion” with his family, but said helping to end Scotland’s long wait for a World Cup place meant the effort to stay fit for another season “was actually worth it”.

The goalkeeper, who started his career at Tynecastle and returned in 2020, missed the start of the season through injury and is currently back-up to Alexander Choulu, 33.

This has led to speculation that he may seek a loan in January to get playing time before the World Cup. However, McInnes is keen to retain such an experienced player, and Gordon says he is satisfied with the situation.

“I will not push for that,” he said about the possibility of leaving. “There’s still a lot of time left in the season. I feel like I’m only one step away from getting a chance to play here, and then it’ll be up to me to try and take advantage of that.”

“We have a chance to move forward in the second half of the season and see where that can take us. So it’s kind of in the balance.

“I can’t guarantee 100% that this won’t happen, but at the same time, there is a lot to look forward to here. I feel as though I still play an important role within the team.”

“I have to be ready and show up [McInnes] In training, if he wants to make that switch I’m ready to play. This is where we are. There is no discussion of anything more than that.

“He doesn’t want me to leave on loan. It’s up to me to make sure I do everything I can to get the opportunity when it comes.”