HANS Andersen could still be a Pirates rider in the upcoming season – after boss Matt Ford admitted he would hold a “final discussion” with the Dane.

The Speedway Star reported Leicester had completed their septet after moving to “snap up” the former Grand Prix star.

The Lions then issued a statement insisting they had yet to finalise their one-to-seven.

Ford is keen to keep his options open given he still has three riders left to name alongside confirmed starters Brady Kurtz, Josh Grajczonek, Kacper Woryna and Mateusz Szczepaniak.

And the Wimborne Road chief therefore agreed with Andersen that talks would be held prior to any move for the ex-Swindon man, as his services may be required in Dorset.

Ford told the Daily Echo: “I know Hans has held contract talks elsewhere but it was agreed that before anything was sanctioned we would have a final discussion.

“Contracts with certain riders regarding Poole are ongoing and may well be so for the foreseeable future.

“I’m hoping that in the very near future we can give a much clearer picture.”

Andersen has captained Pirates in the past two campaigns, leading the Dorset side to the play-off semi-finals on both occasions.

Days before Christmas, the 37-year-old suggested his spell on the south coast was over and hinted he would be joining another top-flight club.

Andersen wrote on Twitter: "Wishing the poole fans a merry Xmas... also like to thank everyone for the last two season... I’ll be back 2018 just not every week at the moment #PiratePride #SeeYa."

Ford last month admitted he was pursuing a deal for club asset Chris Holder.

And the Poole owner revealed his team-building plans were being affected by Polish speedway’s controversial three-league rule, which he hoped would be lifted.