Gordon believes in the Romanov revolution

CRAIG GORDON today urged all connected with Hearts to rally behind under-fire majority shareholder Vladimir Romanov, declaring: "I believe."

The Scotland goalkeeper signed a contract extension yesterday after in-depth discussions with the Lithuanian, who has found himself heavily criticised for forcing Hearts to seek their fifth manager in 17 months by firing Graham Rix last week.

Gordon is now contractually secured to Tynecastle until May 2009, and has spoken out to profess his unwilting faith in Romanov's plans for Hearts.

"I believe in Mr Romanov's ideas for the club," he said. "I believe he will take us forward. He has taken us forward in the season he has been in charge. I fully expect us to continue improving. He will continue to help us sign more quality players.

"This is the first time I've said anything since signing my new deal. Mr Romanov got on with discussions quickly, and his desire to keep me at Hearts prevented things from dragging on.

"Getting things done so quickly allows me to concentrate on continuing to improve as a player, and allows me to focus on things until the end of the season. Sometimes these sorts of negotiations can distract you so it is really good to have moved things forward."

Gordon has a long-term desire to sample football in one of the top continental leagues but, at the age of 23, his continuing development will be overseen by the coaches at Riccarton.

He added: "One of the key reasons behind my decision was that I can continue to develop as a player, while playing first-team football every week. I've still got lots to learn, and had I moved at this time, it could well have been the wrong choice."

Gordon was again in great form at Falkirk on Saturday, where Hearts recorded a priceless 2-1 victory. However, captain Steven Pressley and full-back Robbie Neilson were both forced off early due to injury. Pressley suffered concussion and was replaced by Christophe Berra at half-time, when he had three stitches inserted in his wound. Neilson twisted an ankle late in the match.

However, assistant coach John McGlynn, revealed: "Elvis was looking and feeling much better yesterday and his wound seems to have healed quite quickly," said McGlynn. "Robbie's ankle hasn't got much swelling so the news is also positive regarding him."

McGlynn also believes Andy Webster will be fit for Hamdpen.

• CALUM ELLIOT has won the club's Young Player of the Year award.

Taken from the Scotsman