The Bairns were pushed out of the top half by Aberdeen on the final day before the Scottish Premier League split.

Former Rangers and Hibernian player Latapy insists avoiding relegation remains the first goal of John Hughes' outfit, but he wants to go further next year.

"Obviously the next step is getting into the top six and if we can do that next season it would be great," said the 39-year-old, who has moved into coaching this year but remains an integral part of the side.

"I still have to say, realistically, our goal at this club is to maintain our Premier League status as long as we can.

"But, hopefully when the stands go up and the stadium is finished, and more money is coming into the club, then we could maybe afford better players and we can take it from there.

"The boys have done really well but we have a young squad and at times during the season you can see a lack of experience.

"If we can bring in players with more experience and a bit more quality then at crucial stages in the season it could make a difference."

Falkirk face Inverness Caledonian Thistle in their last home match of the campaign knowing a victory will ensure they finish the season no lower than eighth, but with the possibility still remaining of earning seventh spot.

And Latapy has handed the club an end-of-season boost by insisting he wants to stay on beyond the summer.

He added: "I've invested the latter part of my playing career in the club and I've got an interest to see the club go forward like the players, the management and the directors as well.

"I believe in what we're trying to do here. We've made constant progress in the time I've been here and I've been a part of that and I want to continue to be a part of taking the club forward."