FALKIRK boss John Hughes has told the likes of Pedro Moutinho not to expect lengthy contracts when it comes to negotiating fresh terms.
The ex-Portugal Under-21 international's form is said to have alerted several clubs south of the border with his current deal expiring next summer.
Hughes wants to extend the striker's stay with the Bairns but reckons offering short-term deals keeps his men on their toes as they look to survive in the SPL for the third season in a row.
Despite the interest in Moutinho, big Yogi insists he is not about to change his policy any time soon. He said: "I am a believer in keeping them on a tight lead - they are flying because they have something to play for. It's the way I want to do my work.
"If any of them goes and gets himself a club he feels is bigger and better than Falkirk I'll shake his hand.
"I'm not going to fall out with them. I will keep working with them until the end of the season and try to get the best out of them.
"It also works the other way as well. I don't think you commit yourself too much and if you want to move people out and about and bring in new players that's the best way to do it.
"Hopefully, there will come a time when you are happy with what you have and you have them all tied on long-term contracts."
One player in line for a new deal is Moutinho, with his contract expiring at the end of the season.
The Portuguese took his tally to six for the campaign last week with a brace in the 5-1 win over St Mirren. Hughes added: "Pedro is definitely one I want to be with us for the next couple of years.
"It's great that other clubs are coming to watch your players, it shows you they are doing well and I am fine with that.
"Pedro's had a couple of bad injuries.
He hurt his cruciate then his shoulder. I always knew he was player, it's just doing it consistently.
"When you see him at training day-in, day-out you notice the qualities he has.
"He is strong and quick but he still has a lot of work to do on little bits and pieces of his game."
