Gaetano Berardi has said that 'there are bigger things to do' before he addresses his future with Leeds United.

The experienced defender faces an uncertain future at Elland Road with his contract with the club due to expire at the end of the season.

While the 31-year-old is an important member of Marcelo Bielsa's squad, Berardi has struggled to hold down a regular spot in the starting XI this term, featuring just 20 times in all competitions.

That has led to speculation over where he's likely to be in Leeds United's plans next term, with the possibility of promotion meaning that they could look for a higher calibre of addition.

Supporters would certainly be keen to see him stick around in West Yorkshire, but in a Q&A with the club, he refused to be drawn on his future.

Speaking to Leeds United's official website about where his future lies, Berardi said: "I don't know, I just want to finish the season as best we can.

"There are bigger things to do before I think about my future."

Asked about the prospect of winning the league, he added: "It would be the best memory ever in my career.

"We've been fighting for this for many years, the six years I've been at Leeds, the fans for many more years, but also for my teammates who are fighting.

"It doesn't matter if it's been one, two or three years, we have to just focus on this one and it would be the best present for everyone."

GIVEMESPORT'S Phil Spencer says...

The future of Gaetano Berardi ultimately boils down to what the player wants.

The 31-year-old is undoubtedly a real leader in the Leeds United dressing room and for Marcelo Bielsa to have a player of that ilk in his ranks will certainly be seen as an asset.

That said, there has to be a degree of realism over the playing time he'll be likely to get.

A bit-part player in the Championship, it's hard to imagine that Berardi will become a bigger presence in the first team should the club go on to secure promotion.

Berardi has several good years left in his career and if he decided that he'd want to go somewhere where he was guaranteed first team football then few could blame him.

However the opportunity to be part of a side competing in the Premier League is a huge draw and that could ultimately be what decides his fate beyond the summer.