Sutton is out of contract at the end of the season

"We are still hopeful that we can keep John," said the Love Street boss.

"We have made him a very good offer and only John can say whether he will take it or not.

"The most important thing right now is the football and getting the results on the park and he is playing his part in doing that."

Sutton came off the bench to net an 89th minute equaliser in Wednesday's 1-1 draw with Hibs.

"We are delighted with him," added MacPherson. "That's 11 goals for the season now, which isn't a bad return.

"Sometimes it's difficult for him up there on his own; it can be frustrating for him when we play one up front.

"It's up to the rest of the team to create the chances for him because he has shown that he knows where the back of the net is."

Sutton, younger brother of former Celtic striker Chris, has been linked with summer moves to SPL rivals Inverness and Falkirk.

The 23-year-old started his career with Tottenham Hotspur before loan spells with Carlisle United and Swindon Town.

He moved to Raith Rovers in 2003 and a fine season led to a �60,000 transfer to Millwall.