BREWSTER BACKS HEARTS' TITLE BID

Inverness Caledonian Thistle player-manager Craig Brewster believes Hearts can win the Bank of Scotland Premier League championship - irrespective of what happens on Saturday.

The Edinburgh outfit are five points clear of Celtic, Hibernian and Kilmarnock at the top of the table after opening the SPL campaign with six consecutive victories.

Many have questioned whether they have the staying power but Brewster is convinced Hearts can last the pace even if his side can stop them in their tracks this weekend.

"They have done everything that has been asked of them and more," said the veteran striker. "They have been winning every game comfortably and scoring lots of goals.

"It will be interesting to see how they react to a draw or defeat - and we'll hope to test that this weekend - but they'll be there in the shake-up at the end of the season.

"I don't think anybody expected Hearts to start the season as well as they have but full credit for them for the way they have played and the results they've got.

"George Burley has brought in a lot of good players and that's what happens when quality players gel together quickly. They can definitely go the whole way and win it.

"I don't think they'll fall away dramatically as some people are predicting and they will be up there fighting and giving the Old Firm a run for their money come May."

Brewster believes the Scotland international stars of Tynecastle deserve more of the credit for their 100% start than their foreign imports, who have stolen the headlines.

He added: "The Scotland international team have been as good as they have been recently because of Craig Gordon, Paul Hartley, Steven Pressley and Andy Webster.

"They have been immense for Hearts too and to have them in the side is a massive bonus for George Burley and they have given them a solid base.

"They have brought in a few good foreign players and they have all gelled together really well."

But Brewster claims he is not envious of Burley and the money he has had to spend.

He added: "Not at all - this is my first job and I am absolutely delighted to be here."

Brewster has faith in his side to back bounce from last week's shock home defeat to Motherwell by becoming the first side this season to take points from the capital men.

He concluded: "It's been a great start to the season despite a few shaky results.

"They are a great set of boys and we'll have to deal with everything they throw at us.

"They have got to get beat sometime so why can't we do it. My players can beat anybody on their day.

"We are fit and hungry. The players have done well for me nine times out of 10 and we'll have to be at our best to stop them in their tracks but we're capable of a result."

Taken from sportinglife.com