Bobic's the job for Hearts

PAUL KIDDIE

GERMAN striker Fredi Bobic has been linked with a move to Hearts.

Reports suggest he'll fly into the Capital tomorrow after apparently being invited by boss George Burley for a short trial.

The 33-year-old was released by Hertha Berlin in the summer and is currently a free agent.

Bobic scored twice for Germany against Scotland in the Euro2004 qualifiers and for Borussia Dortmund against Rangers in the UEFA Cup in 1999.

Hearts are currently without Czech striker Roman Bednar due to a knee injury and Burley has always said he needs to strengthen his squad to consistently compete with the Old Firm.

However Burley also claimed some member of the Jambos squad are drawing envious glances from Glasgow.

Four Tynecastle stars started Scotland's impressive midweek win over Slovenia as Walter Smith's men restored some much-needed pride to their failed World Cup qualifying campaign.

Midfielder Paul Hartley capped a fine display with his first goal for his country to wrap up a convincing 3-0 triumph, while Gorgie team-mates Andy Webster, Craig Gordon and Steven Pressley all performed well in Celje.

The quartet have been instrumental in Hearts' storming start to the season, Burley's side having gone into today's showdown with Celtic at Parkhead three points clear of their hosts.

The Tynecastle boss believes the Glasgow giants are now casting envious eyes towards the Capital.

Celtic failed in a bid to land Hartley in January while Rangers were also unsuccessful in their pursuit of Webster at the turn of the year.

Delighted to have all four under contract, Burley insists the four players will be the cornerstone for continued progress.

He said: "I'm sure the Old Firm wish they had our four internationals. But they haven't, we do, and we're very happy. The four Scots internationalists are key to Hearts moving forward.

"I was asked recently if Scotland is helping the Hearts players but I think they are helping Scotland. They are all playing the best football of their careers and that has followed on with Scotland. It's great for Hearts and great that we have produced players who are doing their country proud and they are really enjoying their football."

Gordon was a frustrated onlooker at Parkhead this afternoon as he served his one-match ban following his red card at Falkirk. And Burley said the Scotland No.1 he has no divine right to walk straight back into the side.

"Nobody's guaranteed a place in the team and you go from one week to the next. Nothing is black and white in football," he said.

"You judge performances and then decide who you think will be right on that day for the team.

"Everybody has to earn the right to be in the team."

Taken from the Scotsman