Ronald Koeman says Saints expect to discuss the future of midfielder Jack Cork around the turn of the year.

The 25-year-old is out of contract at the end of the season and talks have not yet been held over a new deal.

Cork revealed earlier this week that he would like to stay and would be open to discussing an extension, but insists he is simply focusing on playing right now.

Saints manager Koeman said a decision on what will happen is likely to be made in a few months.

“No, (there are no talks) not at the moment,” he said. “Maybe the best moment for that is in December or January.

“It’s his future, it is the future of the club, and, ok, we will make that decision when we think it’s the real good moment for that.”

Koeman also praised the reception supporters gave last week to Cork’s fellow midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin, who was playing at St Mary’s for the first time since the transfer window shut.

“I wasn’t surprised how our fans supported Morgan, because we have great fans and Morgan did a lot and is doing a lot for the football club,” he said.

“What I said before, I said it several times, it was a difficult situation for him, but he has a contract for the club and he’s doing that in a very professional way.

“Now you see how he is playing, how he is showing that he is happy to be part of the team. What will happen in the future nobody can tell and nobody can give an answer about that.”