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Stoke calm over protracted Marco Arnautovic contract talks, says Mark Hughes

Stoke's Marko Arnautovic scores his first goal for the club in the 55th minute to secure the away victory against Aston Villa
Image: Marko Arnautovic has scored 10 goals in 30 Stoke appearances this season

Mark Hughes insists he is calm over Marco Arnautovic's future despite protracted talks over a new contract.

The 26-year-old striker has 18 months remaining on his current deal and has been in talks over an extension since last year.

The Austria international also attracted the attention of other clubs in the winter transfer window, with 10 goals in 30 appearances this season.

Hughes hails Arnautovic 'power'
Hughes hails Arnautovic 'power'

Stoke boss Mark Hughes praises Marko Arnautovic after Villa win

Arnautovic's two goals beat Aston Villa 2-1 on Saturday and Hughes said: "I think he's just prepared to play his football.

Stoke City's striker Marko Arnautovic (C) celebrates with teammates after scoring his second goal during the match against Aston Villa
Image: Arnautovic scored both goals in Stoke's 2-1 win at home to Villa

"Let other people have conversations about his contract. When the time comes he will sit down and that's the right attitude.

"He wants to concentrate on his football and when it needs to be signed it will be.

"Marko is doing really well. Since he's come here, we have talked about his ability, power and pace. The one thing lacking in the last two seasons has been a goal threat and he's added that this year.

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"He's getting a good return of goals. I think it's his best return since he's been at the club. The two goals take him to double figures."

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