Hearts: Laszlo backing Balogh despite call over keeper

Published on Friday 4 December 2009 09:47

HEARTS manager Csaba Laszlo today threw his support behind Janos Balogh and stressed he is not seeking to recruit a new goalkeeper despite inquiring about the Algerian international Faouzi Chaouchi.

• Hearts manager Csaba Laszlo insists he has confidence in goalkeeper Janos Balogh. Picture: Dan Phillips

After being impressed by 24-year-old Chaouchi in Algeria's World Cup play-off triumph over Egypt, Laszlo contacted the player's agent only to be told he has an agreement in place to join Marseille. He currently plays for Algerian club ES Setif.

However, the manager was at pains to point out he has no intention of replacing Balogh, who will start in goal against Hamilton on Sunday. The Hungarian has endured some erratic form this season but Laszlo professed himself satisfied with his overall contribution and praised his penalty save against Kilmarnock last weekend.

"I am not looking for a new goalkeeper but I saw this player (Chaouchi] and he impressed me," admitted Laszlo. "I saw him play against Egypt and he is a fantastic guy. I called some people to ask about him but I found out Olympique Marseille have already got this goalkeeper. He will be a very good goalkeeper and this shows you must be fast in football.

"In the last few games I was very positive about Janos. He saved a penalty against Kilmarnock in a very difficult situation. He also had one very good save one-on-one (with Jamie Hamill].

"I wish for Janos to keep this level now.

"All the goalkeepers we have are good but, with Janos and Marian Kello, they must reach their best level. At the moment I think we have too much up and down. This is also true with the team and this can affect the performances of the players.

"If Janos can do better, he must. It's not an answer to say I can do better but I don't do it. This is not productive. The old rule in football is that, if you are building a team, the first point is have a good goalkeeper."

Laszlo is confident of welcoming Spanish winger Suso back into the Hearts squad for Sunday's visit to Hamilton. The player has recovered from hernia surgery and resumed full training earlier this week.

"This is good news," continued the manager Laszlo. "Suso has worked hard and the medical staff deserve credit because they have done a good job. It might be too soon for him to play against Hamilton, but this is good for us that he's returning now. If he is pain free he will be in the squad."

David Templeton is also fit again but Jason Thomson is doubtful with a hamstring complaint and Jamie Mole has a minor thigh injury. A late decision will be taken on whether Ruben Palazuelos plays, the Spaniard having returned to Spain following the birth of his daughter.