New football director for Hearts in by Xmas

HEARTS are on target to have a director of football in place by Christmas, the Evening News can reveal.

Chairman Roman Romanov stated recently that the club had already identified the individual they wanted to spearhead his father Vladimir's revolution and that the person concerned had been working "incognito".

However, in his match day programme notes for the clash with Livingston at the weekend, the acting chief executive added to the intrigue surrounding the appointment by saying: "As I write this, our efforts continue to secure the services of a top quality director of football and we are making positive progress with this matter."

The situation took a fresh twist today with former Wimbledon boss Joe Kinnear claiming the club had been in contact with him regarding the post.

The 58-year-old was touted as a target for Celtic before Martin O'Neill's arrival at Parkhead and he insisted he would relish the challenge of linking up with the club which currently sits a point behind the Glasgow giants at the top of the SPL and on course for Champions League qualification.

"Hearts have made an approach to my agent and I am very keen to find out more about it," said Kinnear.

"The prospect of working in Scotland at such a club that is clearly going places excites me."

Continuing their policy of refusing to comment on possible candidates, the club today refused to be drawn on this latest speculation.

However, the Evening News understands that the Romanovs are closing in on their preferred target, with an official appointment in the pipeline within the next three weeks.

A spokesman for Vladimir Romanov today insisted the Lithuanian millionaire has not been deflected in his drive to unearth the person he believes will take the Gorgie outfit forward in this new era.

"It has always been the intention to get the right man in place, regardless of the length of time that may take," he said.

"That has not changed and good progress is being made."

Although the incoming figurehead will have responsibility for transfer matters with head coach Graham Rix's remit to concentrate on coaching, it has emerged today that Moldova internationalist Yuri Priganiuc has apparently signed for the club.

The 27-year-old defender plays for FC Khimki in the Russian Premier League and his representatives have told media in that country the transfer has already been agreed, subject to a work permit being granted.

Priganiuc featured for his country against Scotland in both of their World Cup 2006 qualifiers.

Campbell Ogilvie, meanwhile, was today settling into his new post as general secretary of Hearts. The former Rangers secretary watched the Jambos defeat Livingston 2-1 at Tynecastle on Saturday and he took up his new role yesterday.

"I am delighted that Campbell shares the same vision for the club as we do. He is one of the best football administrators in the business and I believe he will be a strong addition to our executive team," said Romanov junior.

• HEARTS will take on Hibs in the SFA Youth Cup on Sunday, December 18 at Tynecastle. Kick-off is 1pm and entry will be free for season ticket holders.

Taken from the Scotsman