Taylor Moore exclusive: Hearts future, Bristol City talks and shoving Hibs' Ryan Porteous

For now, the centre-back is focused on five remaining cinch Premiership fixtures and a Scottish Cup final. Game time has been restricted during his season-long loan in Edinburgh so, with Craig Halkett and John Souttar both injured, Moore must relish any opportunities in defence.

That starts at Dundee United on Sunday. Strong performances between now and the summer could open a door at his parent club or potentially another prospective suitor. Staying at Hearts seems unlikely given his bit-part role this term, but Moore is determined to gain clarity from all concerned one way or another.

“I’ve got to have some very serious conversations this summer with Bristol City, my agent, my girlfriend and my family,” he told the Evening News. “Where do I see myself next season? Do Bristol City need me or not? There are a lot of questions.

“Sometimes it’s quite difficult as a player coming towards the end of a season and you don’t know your next step. I’m 25 in May. I’m old enough and ugly enough to understand that sometimes you need to move on and close a chapter.

“I’m very much open to having a conversation with Bristol City to see where things are. Ultimately, I need to go into next season positively in a team that wants to be successful, like this one, and looking to play as much as possible to develop.”

Asked whether there have been any discussions about possibly staying at Tynecastle, Moore said the approach at this stage is realistic.

“Joe Savage and the manager have both been really honest. Recently, our conversations have been more about how I can get in the team than maybe staying here.

“I think everyone is open to a lot of options. It could be a loan, it could be a permanent deal, or it might not happen. I need to let them