Pressley - Cash will bring cups

Majority shareholder Vladimir Romanov, who joined the team for their open-top bus trip through the streets of the capital, has pledged to keep ploughing money into the club following their Tennent's Scottish Cup triumph. Those promises were music to the ears of Pressley, who now expects the cup to be the first of many as Hearts make a real bid for the championship.

Pressley said: "We have had a fantastic season but now the challenge for ourselves is can we sustain that year by year. The Old Firm, over the last 10 or 15 years, have dominated the Scottish game but with Mr Romanov's investment I believe we can move forward and make a serious challenge to them."

He added: "We have to show we can compete on a regular basis with the Old Firm and hopefully next year we can deliver even more silverware.

"I don't think anyone can question Mr Romanov's passion and investment in the football club. If we are to compete with the Old Firm on a regular basis then it is going to take some serious investment."

Romanov has not been scared to make ruthless decisions but Pressley believes that the team spirit was the key to their success following the departures of George Burley and Graham Rix as head coaches.

He said: "It's been tough but the one thing we are very proud of is the spirit within our dressing room. We have got fantastic lads, great unity and that has got us through a very enduring season."

Rudi Skacel suggested he could leave Tynecastle in the summer but Pressley is refusing to concede that.

Pressley stated: "He has certainly indicated that but we are very hopeful he can stay at the club. He is a fantastic lad and has had an exceptional season. He has made a major contribution to our success."