If Falkirk fail to extend Scott Flinders' loan deal from Crystal Palace then Hearts stopper Steve Banks is being lined up as an alternative. "Banksy is definitely on the list but it all comes down to finance," Hughes told the Edinburgh Evening News.

"I can't be any more honest than that. If we get Flinders then great, but if not, we'll be looking about.

"I know Banksy's situation at Hearts and he is one we like. I haven't made contact with Hearts or anything, he's just one who is on our list.

"I'm working on Flinders at the moment and if that doesn't come off we'll see what happens. We should know by Christmas what is happening but we are trying to keep him here. He's done well for us, been patient and works ever so hard."