Colin Calderwood faces a crucial period in shaping his Hibernian squad with the January transfer window approaching.
Sixteen members of Hibs' first-team contingent are out of contract at the end of the current campaign and will be free to speak to other clubs from January 1, while Calderwood is also looking to augment his squad with new signings.
Speaking after Hibs' Clydesdale Bank Premier League clash with Hamilton was postponed on Friday, the manager said: "We're assessing them as they go on. It's something that will be addressed more and more within the next five to six weeks. The players do have the option to go to other clubs and we've got to be aware of that."
Calderwood has led Hibs to two wins, four defeats and one draw since succeeding John Hughes in October.
His side's on-field display has been his immediate concern and he has only held discussions with "one or two" players thus far.
"Our concentration has been on the games," added Calderwood. "(The January transfer window) is getting very close but it's just normal practice - scouting and recruitment.
"We've got to make sure we've got personnel going on that will help us from February onwards, but in reality you really want people who will be here longer than that."
Calderwood was asked specifically about the future of Derek Riordan, who was sent off in the Edinburgh derby last month after being handed the Hibs captaincy and is out of contract at the end of the season.
The manager said: "We definitely have to have someone like him at the club.
"He's one of the better players, has an influence and is a goalscorer, so you obviously want to keep those types."
Source: PA
