Pressley backing for frozen-out Webster

STEVEN Pressley, who lifted the Scottish Cup as Hearts captain, yesterday praised the professionalism of Andy Webster, his team-mate who has been left out of the first team in recent weeks. The two Scotland internationals were partners in central defence for much of the season, but Webster was first omitted from the squad after declining to have talks about a new contract, and then picked up an Achilles injury.

Vladimir Romanov, the Hearts owner, said on Sunday that his own medical staff had not been convinced the injury necessitated a two-week break from playing. Pressley, however, had nothing but praise for his team-mate.

"Andy's conduct since being left out the side has been incredible," he said. "He's trained in the manner he always trains, he's been in and around the team on match days and even at Hampden, when he wasn't named in the 16, he was in the dressing-room encouraging the players prior to the game.

"I think that says a lot about the man. I don't know what is going to happen to him in the summer, but it's been a joy to play with him and see him develop into the player he has become."

The dispute between Webster and Hearts may appear to
have only one possible ending, but Pressley, who also paid tribute to his colleague in the cup-final programme, reiterated his wish that a conclusion could yet be found which would keep Webster at the club. "Of course I hope that he stays, because you saw from my comments in the cup final programme what I think of him as a player, and he is the type of guy we require at this club if we are to progress. I don't know what his situation is or what he intends to do, but whatever it is I wish him all the best.

"I feel for Andy," he continued. "He played in every round up until the final and played in over 30 games in the league campaign, so his contribution has been massive this season. I'm just disappointed for him it had to end in this manner."

Webster was included in Hearts' initial squad of 19 only to be omitted from the 16 who were on duty for the final against Gretna. He was also absent from the celebrations back in Edinburgh on Sunday, whereas less than a fortnight earlier, when Hearts secured second place in the SPL, he was on the pitch at the end celebrating with his team-mates.

"I texted him yesterday to see he was OK and everything was fine," Pressley added. "He was missed, and his contribution this season certainly shouldn't be underestimated."

Taken from the Scotsman