Pressley expecting long term success

IN A week which has seen Hearts owner Vladimir Romanov come under fresh criticism from SPFA representatives for his treatment of Scotland defender Andy Webster, the Kaunas-based businessman received support from a surprising source in the shape of club captain Steven Pressley.

The veteran has experienced more turmoil in the 16 months of the Russian's stewardship at Tynecastle than in the previous 16 years of his professional career put together, but nevertheless claims that Scottish football needs more Vladimir Romanovs. Pressley believes that Hearts will be going head-to-head with the Old Firm at the business end of the table for years to come thanks to the banker's investment.

The 32-year-old conceded, however, that his opinion isn't sought before Romanov employs his unorthodox methods. "I think people sometimes forget I'm only the captain of this football club," he said. "My responsibility is to ensure that spirit remains high in the dressing room. I can't influence Mr Romanov's decision-making."

He has no doubts, though, that the influence exerted by Romanov on the SPL has been, on balance, benign.

"I'm sure it's been a breath of fresh air for everybody," he said. "The monotony of Scottish football has finally been broken."

A victory over Celtic at Tynecastle this afternoon would help dress the wounds left by the champions' 3-2 victory there on January 1.

"That was just one of several games we were disappointed with," said Pressley. "To perform the way we did for 60-70 minutes and then lose after leading 2-0 was hard to take.

"What that proved to us was how tough it is to win the SPL. We feel that, player for player, there's very little between the teams, but Celtic showed consistency through December, January and February, the crucial months.

"We need to show that we can do that as a side but I don't believe, as many seem to, that this year represented our one big chance to win the title.

"I honestly believe that this is just the start for Hearts. I think Mr Romanov will make a big investment in the summer and that you'll see us emerging as real contenders."

Pressley also believes that pipping Rangers for second place will help Romanov beat David Murray and Paul Le Guen to transfer targets this summer.

"We'll be much better next season but I think qualifying for the Champions League is vital," he said. "If we can dangle that carrot in front of players it will help entice them to this club and if Rangers can only dangle UEFA Cup football it gives us a slight advantage."

Taken from the Scotsman