ZAL OR NOTHING FOR VLAD

HEARTS are preparing to sign another Lithuanian but have admitted the World Cup stars promised by owner Vladimir Romanov are unlikely to arrive at Tynecastle.

Kaunas midfielder Marius Zaliukas, 22, is due to arrive in Edinburgh this morning to join up with the Jambos.

Owner Romanov is on record as saying he would fork out up to £10million on a single player for Hearts.

But so far his summer additions have included a loan signing, a free transfer and a £200,000 buy from PAOK Salonika.

Hearts are top of the SPL after two games but the arrival of Zaliukas, who featured as a trialist against Osasuna last month, is likely to underwhelm fans after the midweek Champions League qualifier defeat to AEK Athens.

Hearts coach Valdas Ivanauskas refused to confirm the identity of his new arrival but Zaliukas is the man.

Fans were told three weeks ago that two World Cup stars were due to arrive for signing talks but they never appeared.

Ivanauskas said: "We've not forgotten these players but there's now only a small chance they will come here.

"You will know the player we are bringing in and he's a midfielder who can also play in defence.

"He's a good player and we need the options he provides."

Meanwhile, Romanov has admitted injuries cost the Jambos dear against AEK.

However, he is refusing to give up the ghost in Europe's premier competition despite a 2-1 first leg defeat.

Romanov said: "Our team was not ready for the game, we could all see it.

"Brellier couldn't play because of a high temperature. Bednar and Cesnauskis were not in perfect health before they started the game - and both got ill after it ended.

"It's a pity about Bruno Aguiar being sent off. Of course, this was not the main reason why we lost, but we will be ready for the game in Athens in two weeks and we'll do our best there.

"Difficulties only make strong people stronger - and I hope this will be the case with Hearts."

The Hearts owner has also signalled a truce with Andy Webster by wishing him all the best at Wigan.

He said: "I don't know if he's signed for Wigan already. But if he has we're glad he's found a club that suits him better.

"We have very good players, like Berra, so good luck to Andy with his future."

Taken from the Daily Record