Japan midfielder Nakamura last week claimed he had yet to make a final decision on his future, having previously seemed certain to return to his homeland when his contract expires at the end of the current campaign.

Brown said: "I hope he can be talked into staying for another season.

"He is probably one of the fittest in our team and his natural ability is frightening.

"So we all hope Naka can stay and, with a wee bit of luck, the board can convince him to do that."

Describing just what makes his team-mate so special, Scotland midfielder Brown added: "You see him in training and games; he rarely gives the ball away and always keeps possession.

"He's also good on the ball. Naka is in the gym all the time and he's the last to leave after training.

"He is dedicated. Shunsuke is always hitting free-kicks and practising bits and bobs."