Romanov's 'new man' is mystery to Rix

HEARTS are still weeks away from officially appointing their director of football, the club confirmed today.

Chairman Roman Romanov has revealed that the Gorgie outfit have successful completed their search for someone to fill the newly created position, the individual concerned currently working "incognito" for the Jambos.

Boss Graham Rix today insisted he has no idea as to the identity of the person concerned and the club has moved quickly to explain to fans that an announcement is not imminent.

"We are making good progress on that front," said a spokesperson. "However, we are talking about a matter of weeks and not days until the appointment of our director of football."

Romanov, who is also acting as the club's interim chief executive following the sacking of Phil Anderton, claimed the incoming individual was "well known" in the United Kingdom.

Rix said he is unaware of who the person is and insisted it would be better for all concerned for the official appointment to be made sooner rather than later.

"As far as the director of football is, I have no idea who it will be," he said.

"As long as the guy coming in can do the job I don't care where he comes from. I would like the new man in as soon as possible - I think we all would - but it's obviously not as easy as everyone thinks, especially to get the right guy. That is the job for Mr Romanov and I'm sure he will get the right man."

He added: "A director of football would help share my responsibilities but I'm happy with what I'm doing at the moment and really buzzing just now."

While addressing a meeting of around 400 members of the Hearts Shareholders' Association in the Gorgie Suite last night, Romanov would not be drawn on the mystery man but was adamant that it wasn't former Scotland boss Craig Brown.

"We already have a director of football working incognito and hopefully we'll announce him soon," said Romanov. "He is helping us at the moment and is well known in the UK."

Rix takes his side to Motherwell tomorrow looking for his first win as Hearts boss after last weekend's draw at Pittodrie.

He said: "It was a good sign for me that the players were disappointed at just getting a point at Aberdeen. The spirit is good and everyone has been working hard this week. It was important to get the Pittodrie game out of the way, not just for me but for the players as well."

Edgar Jankauskas is battling to be fit after injuring a hamstring, Rix adding: "Edgar is making good progress and has a chance for tomorrow.

"Roman Bednar trained yesterday and is fine. He's been out for a while but it's good to have him back in training."

Taken from the Scotsman