Hart: Laurence Shankland contract gamble paid off – Graeme Jones

“The situation with Lawrence was actually quite simple a year ago,” he said. “As a club we had to make a calculation as to whether we wanted to keep Lawrence or not.

“And the only way we could keep him was the deal that was finally agreed upon.

“The calculation was based on the fact that, if we were too successful as a team and too successful at Lawrence Park, the risk would be that we would lose him at the end of the first season.”

Jones admits some fans may be disappointed by that deal.

“But I defy anyone that it was the right decision for the club that Derek (head coach McInnes) and I took Lawrence for the year,” he said.

“He scored over 20 goals, his leadership on and off the park was top notch.

“So, while I understand naturally that our fans will be disappointed to lose their captain and their striker, this was the only deal we could have gone ahead with and I support the decision we made and I’m grateful for the year we had with Lawrence.”

Meanwhile, Jones said Devlin’s situation was “ongoing” after the 27-year-old joined the Australian squad as his Hearts contract expired.

“Discussions are still going on with Cam’s representatives,” he added. “These are positive discussions and I would expect that in the next week or so we will have some closure on whether he stays or leaves.

“It’s fantastic news that he’s made the Australia squad – it’s very important for him and for us, we’re delighted and proud that he’s made it.

“So we wish him the best of luck at the World Cup and we will be monitoring the situation closely regarding his contract with us.”