Caley Thistle manager John Hughes is planning for the long-term at the club after winning the Premiership manager of the month award for January.
Hughes picked up the accolade for the second time this season after an unbeaten month in which his side won five of its six matches.
The 50-year-old’s Inverness contract expires in 18 months and his team third in the table Hughes is keen to prolong the good work beyond next summer.
However, the former Falkirk and Hibernian manager admits he is unsure how long the Caley Jags can compete with clubs with bigger budgets and larger crowds.
Hughes said: “I’m happy and content. I’m at an age now where contentment is big. But I’m still ambitious, and still looking at ways to move this club on. We’ll see where we finish, but I don’t know if we can do it.
“I would probably say success for this club is first and foremost to stay in the league, and then get in the top six. We always seem to be punching above our weight, but I always look to improve, I want to be the best.”
Hughes was keen to share the credit for his award, and reserved particular praise for first-team coach Scott Kellacher for being a major part of Inverness’ success.
Hughes added: “All Scott’s hard work at times goes unnoticed but he’s been an absolute godsend and a fantastic asset to the first team. He brings a great vibe to the dressing room and the training pitch. He’s played a massive part and it’s only right I acknowledge that.”
