SPFA backing stance taken by players

THE Scottish Professional Footballers' Association have backed Hearts captain Steven Pressley after he lifted the lid on "unrest" at the Edinburgh club.

Scotland international Pressley went public with his concern - and that of a number of team-mates - with a statement read to the media ahead of tomorrow's Bank of Scotland Premier League match against Dunfermline.

The 33-year-old stated there was "significant unrest" within the Hearts squad and claimed he lacks "the full backing, direction and coherence of the manager and those running the football club".

Hearts majority shareholder Vladimir Romanov is now facing a mutiny from a number of players after Pressley was flanked by goalkeeper Craig Gordon and midfielder Paul Hartley for the announcement.

SPFA secretary Fraser Wishart has praised the Hearts squad for maintaining their professionalism "under difficult circumstances" in recent years - amid reports Romanov warned the players they would be sold if they did not defeat the Pars.

Wishart said: "Over the last couple of years the professionalism, conduct and commitment to Heart of Midlothian FC by the players has been exemplary.

"Under difficult circumstances, they have managed to continue to be successful on the field of play.

"As all those involved in football know, the relationship between the head coach and the players has always, and will continue to be, the most important at a football club. It is clear, however, following recent events the players feel that stability at the club and a clear strategy with regard to the way forward at the club is now necessary."

A year has passed since Romanov stunned Scottish football by parting company with manager George Burley before a match against Dunfermline.

The same opposition visit Tynecastle today after Pressley revealed "significant unrest" within the dressing room.

Head coach Valdas Ivanauskas was granted a fortnight's sick leave earlier this week with Eduard Malofeev deputising.

Taken from the Scotsman