Romanov applauds Pressley's cap record

HEARTS majority shareholder Vladimir Romanov has paid tribute to Steven Pressley for becoming the most capped Scotland player in the club's history.

Romanov was watching in his home city of Kaunas as Hearts skipper Pressley made his 30th appearance for Scotland in the 2-1 victory over Lithuania in Wednesday's Euro 2008 qualifier.

The new record sees Pressley overtake the 29 caps won by Tynecastle legend Bobby Walker from 1900 to 1913.

Speaking of Pressley's contribution to the national team, Romanov told his club's website: "I am very proud of him for achieving this great record.

"I have always said that Steven Pressley is the pride of Scottish football. Physically he is one of the strongest members of the team - and in better shape than some of the younger players.

"He's as strong as a bull - so much so that I am sure he has some good years in front of him at the top. Still, I really hate it when he is out through injury."

Being such a crucial player for both club and country, Romanov admits he is surprised Pressley, 32, has not been snapped up by a Barclays Premiership club - although the defender did have a season in the English top flight with Coventry City earlier in his career.

"He took my eye as soon as I became involved at Hearts," Romanov added. "Frankly I am surprised he wasn't a major target for some of the Premiership clubs.

"As for his record in becoming the most capped Hearts player for Scotland's international team, I can only say I am very proud of him, as I am sure are all our fans.

"I was very happy to be in Kaunas to see him beat such a long-standing record."

Meanwhile, Hearts' French midfielder Julien Brellier reckons Scotland have a chance of qualifying for Euro 2008, particularly with world champions Italy dropping five points in their first two games.

"I think Scotland can definitely be a surprise in this group," said Brellier. "Sometimes Italy are like actors, they come down after a big performance.

"It's just very difficult for them and we can see that now. They are vulnerable I think.

"When they play like they did in the last two games, they did not do well.

"Italy are not playing well at all and people are not happy, and I think Scotland can surprise a few teams.

"They can be one of the two teams with France that get through."

Taken from the Scotsman