MURRAY DAVIDSON is expected to settle the debate over his future by the end of the month.

The St Johnstone midfielder is out of contract in the summer and has spent weeks in discussions with a number of clubs over the prospect of a move at the end of the campaign. The most compelling arguments are understood to have come from suitors in England, with an offer to remain in Perth having seemed hushed given the volume of speculation.

There is a certainty amid such conjecture, though. Davidson has no need to fret about taking the next step in his career as he is supported by choice – the 24-year-old has also been linked routinely with a move to Rangers since the Ibrox club had a £150,000 offer turned down last season – and he has been able to take a relaxed approach to negotiating a move. Indeed, he had his feet up on Tuesday night, as injury kept him from helping his side earned to a draw with Celtic, and the midfielder's fitness will be assessed again ahead of the visit of St Mirren tomorrow.

That St Johnstone were able to subdue Celtic without him will offer some comfort for next season since his career path now appears to lead away from the Clydesdale Bank Premier League. Davidson is assured of his worth after picking up his first senior Scotland cap in November and is has been that sense of confidence which has ensured he has been able to keep the issue of his future separate from the more immediate challenge of helping the Perth side sustain their presence in the top six this season.

"Something could be sorted within the next couple of weeks but while I'm here that won't affect me," Davidson said. "I am in the middle of speaking to numerous options at the moment, including St Johnstone. They've offered me a contract but I just have to focus on things game by game because if I let my mind to wander then that is when your performances will drop."

Such an assertion is banal and can seem rehearsed by players who come to find themselves in demand. Yet Davidson has also been able to draw strength from the interest his performances have attracted. "I'm used to that now. This is my fourth season here and you've got to get on with it," he said.

"I've said many times that I would rather have people talking about me in a good light than not talking about me, so it's up to me to keep my performances up to a level I'm happy with. If I don't then nobody will be talking about me."