Award winner Webster puts full focus on road to Europe

Published on Thursday 10 May 2012 03:48

Hearts defender Andy Webster was a winner at the club’s end-of-season awards ceremony. Now the Scotland cap has set his sights on lifting the Scottish Cup.

The defender, who captained Dundee United to Hampden success two years ago, was named the players’ Player of the Year on Sunday evening.

But the 30-year-old refuses to bask in the glory of individual success as he looks to help Hearts confirm a Europa League berth against Celtic on Sunday ahead of the monumental Scottish Cup final against city rivals Hibs on 19 May. A point at Parkhead should be enough to seal fifth place and a route into Europe.

Webster said: “Any time your team-mates vote for you, they think you’ve done a decent job, so it’s an honour to pick up this award. Over the course of the season, you worry about the games you’re playing in and it’s not an individual thing.

“I just want the team to be successful and, if I can play a small part in that, then I’m delighted. It’s more about the team’s success than anything. Our season has had its ups and downs. we’ve had good periods when we’ve played very well and achieved results, and spells when we’ve not played so well and had disappointing results.

“Over the course, I think we could have done a bit better, but now we’re looking forward to this cup final. Any chance to lift silverware is what you live for as a footballer, but Celtic is a vital game and has our full attention.

“We’re looking to qualify for Europe first and foremost and it’s going to be a massive occasion at Celtic Park.”

Hearts first team coach Gary Locke has hailed the influence of Webster in defence. He said: “He’s been fantastic, although Paulo Sergio touched on it at the awards dinner – it’s great to get these awards individually, but over the course of the season it’s about the team – and Webby mentioned that as well. Certainly he’s been a top performer for us this year as have a number of the players.”

Hearts, are considering whether to pursue an interest in two released Real Madrid youngsters after the pair played as trialists in an under-19 bounce game against Livingston on Tuesday. Goalkeeper David Soria Solis and striker Diego Moreno Minquez, both 19, featured in a 3-0 victory.

Taken from the Scotsman