Middlesbrough defender Jonathan Grounds could remain at Hibernian until the end of the season. Grounds was expected to return at the end of next month but Boro boss Tony Mowbray told The Scotsman that Hibs may have an option to keep the 22-year-old in Edinburgh.

"There are financial implications to think about and I'll be assessing things in due course.

"In my mind I have a pretty good left-footed defender playing in the team at the moment. I have to give some thought on what's best for the squad and the team."

And Hibs manager Colin Calderwood said: "I've spoken to Tony Mowbray but it is something we have to leave until we get nearer the end of his loan, probably mid-way through January.

"It's not been decided one way or the other. First and foremost it will be their decision."