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Shiels keen on Killie stay

Image: Kenny Shiels: Would like the opportunity for more good times at Rugby Park

Kilmarnock manager Kenny Shiels has reiterated his desire to stay on at Rugby Park ahead of talks.

Boss hopes to hold talks with club officials by start of next week

Kilmarnock manager Kenny Shiels has reiterated his desire to stay on at Rugby Park ahead of talks. Since Killie triumphed in the Scottish Communities League Cup in March, both Shiels and chairman Michael Johnston have both intimated their desire for the manager to remain in his post, with his current deal set to expire after Saturday's final match of the SPL season. Shiels anticipates talks will take place after the trip to relegated Dunfermline, where Killie will be targeting victory to seal seventh place in the table. Shiels, who has previously expressed his wish for a long-term deal at Rugby Park, told STV: "Nothing has happened yet. We hope to meet and hold talks by the start of next week. My intention is to stay at Kilmarnock. "There are nuts and bolts in every contract. It's not just about what Kilmarnock can offer me. It's also about what I can offer them." Shiels played down the prospect of moving elsewhere, adding: "There have been clubs in touch. But clubs get in touch with clubs about managers all the time."

Hay extension

Meanwhile, Shiels admits he is delighted Garry Hay has agreed a one-year contract extension at Rugby Park. The left-back, who is a product of the Killie youth academy, opted to continue his 17-year career with the League Cup holders. And Shiels believes the 34-year-old has a vital role to play at Kilmarnock as he prepares to reshape his squad for next season. "It has all been agreed with Garry," Shiels said. "I am delighted. "It is great news for the club. Garry is a big part of the Kilmarnock family and is a key player in our team. "We need to get the right blend between youth and experience. Sometimes we take players like Garry for granted, assuming he will sign a new deal. So we are delighted he has."

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