Caley Thistle manager John Robertson is hopeful goalkeeper Mark Ridgers is the first of many players to commit his long-term future to the Highlanders.
Ridgers has agreed a two-year extension to his Inverness contract, which will ensure he remains at Caledonian Stadium until 2022.
Robertson remains in talks with numerous players, including Joe Chalmers and Nathan Austin whose deals expire this summer, and although he is keen to tie down the bulk of his squad, he understands their form for Caley Jags is likely to attract suitors.
Robertson said: “We are deep in discussions with many other players as well, but Mark is the first one who has committed to sign a two-year extension.
“Players are out of contract, so other clubs are going to show interest.
“We have offered our out of contract players contracts, and we’ve offered in-contract players contracts.
“It’s up to them if they want to sign them or not. We can’t stop anybody having interest in our players, especially boys that have been playing very well for us.
“Joe Chalmers has had a particularly good season, and we are absolutely not surprised there are Premiership teams looking to sign him.
“There’s very little we can do about that.”
Robertson made Inverness-born Ridgers to Caledonian Stadium one of his first signings after returning as Caley Thistle boss in 2017, and he feels the 28-year-old’s form more than merits his extension.
Robertson added: “Mark is a local boy. He has been absolutely magnificent for us over the last year and a half since he got his place.
“We have sat down and talked about what we want for the future, and how big a part he is.
“We are delighted to have him here for the next three years. He has had a fantastic season. He’s such a big presence, everything about him has improved in his concentration levels.
“He has become a number one – he wants to be the number one.
“Mark deserves this extension and the security, and he’s a player that in goalkeeping terms is still very young.
“It’s a tremendous signing for the club and one we’re delighted to announce.”
