Jam Tarts to warn Skacel

HEARTS have confirmed that they will attempt to curb the unsavoury antics of midfielder Rudi Skacel in a meeting with interim head coach Valdas Ivanauskas.

The Czech has been pilloried for certain acts of simulation during the 2-1 victory at Falkirk on Saturday, most notably feigning injury in the hope that an opponent would be cautioned or dismissed by referee Alan Freeland.

Ivanauskas was set to have a word in the ear of his top goalscorer today as he strives to implement his own authority after the departure of Graham Rix last week, and assistant coach John McGlynn admitted there are certain aspects of Skacel's game that require looking into.

"Rudi has been here all season and he's been a massive part of what we've done so far but we know there's a wee bit of baggage that comes with him that might need to be addressed," said McGlynn. "It's up to Valdas what he says but it's maybe the right thing to do."

McGlynn reported further improvements in the conditions of captain Steven Pressley and full-back Robbie Neilson, both of whom had to be withdrawn early against Falkirk. Pressley had three stitches inserted in a head wound at half-time in the game and Neilson was substituted towards the end after going over on an ankle.

"There are slight improvements in both players. We're not in a position to say it's guaranteed that they'll play on Sunday but if they keep improving they will be fine," added McGlynn. "What we are fearful of is their improvement slowing down at any point over the next few days. Then we would have a problem but for now everything is on track and they should be ready for selection.

"Elvis is a big influence. I thought Jose and Christophe did exceptionally well for us on Saturday given that it was the first time they had ever played together without Pressley or Webster there in some shape or form."

McGlynn and Ivanauskas will train the thoughts of the Hearts players on only one possible outcome for Sunday - outright victory. "We aren't contemplating the word 'lose'," said McGlynn.

"We won't even be going into that. I think the atmosphere around the place will build up as the week goes along. The players have known this match was coming and I'm sure it is going to be a bit special.

"Come Friday and certainly Saturday, that's when it will kick in that there's a massive game ahead. We have an experienced squad with guys who have played in big international games and big European nights. We hope they can help some of the younger lads.We have a good deal of experience in the likes of Takis Fyssas and Edgaras Jankauskas, over and above the Scottish core of Gordon, Pressley, Webster and Hartley."

Taken from the Scotsman