Bouzid in talks over future at Hearts

Published on Tuesday 16 March 2010 09:04

ISMAEL BOUZID'S agent will jet into Edinburgh on Friday for talks with senior Hearts officials on the player's future. Austrian-based Thomas Boehm refused to confirm whether the meeting relates to comments from Bouzid stating he could leave Tynecastle at the end of the season.

"The situation is that I am flying to Edinburgh on Friday," Boehm told the Evening News. "Ismael is under contract at Hearts for another year and that is all I can say at the moment. We will see what is going on. The main thing is that he is coming back from his (hamstring] injury. He is not unhappy, everything is in order."

Bouzid was reported in Sunday newspapers as saying he may look to change clubs this summer. "God alone knows whether I will stay in Scotland next season," he said. "But it is certain that if I get an interesting offer from a bigger club, I won't hesitate for an instant to join them.

"I have ambition, as do all professional players. I received offers during the January transfer window, although I opted to continue with Hearts so as not to disrupt my rhythm.

"I am very happy where I am at the moment. I wanted a bit more stability in order to regain top form, and I don't regret staying put as I have been able to have a very good season. The best proof of that have been the comments made by my manager and the media, as if you play badly in Scotland they'll tell you straight."

The Algerian internationalist will not be fit for Saturday's Edinburgh derby, although winger Andy Driver is pressing for the chance to play. He was due to take part in a bounce match against Kilmarnock today after overcoming tendonitis in his knee. Manager Jim Jefferies revealed he may even start against Hibs.

"He has been training without any reaction and if he is okay, then he'll be in my thoughts," said Jefferies. "I certainly haven't ruled him out. It's a big game for us as regards the top six."

Meanwhile, Celtic were today reported to be monitoring Hearts' out-of-contract defender Jose Goncalves closely with a view to a free transfer this summer.