Laszlo not surprised as Wallace is linked with Ipswich

Published on Tuesday 10 November 2009 21:22

HEARTS manager Csaba Laszlo has shrugged off speculation linking full-back Lee Wallace with a move to Ipswich.

Reports claim Portman Road manager Roy Keane is considering a bid for the 22-year-old, who made his Scotland debut in Japan last month.

Laszlo is determined to hold on to Wallace, but insists it is only natural his performances have attracted attention of other clubs.

"I have watched how Lee Wallace has improved and his first cap for his country was a big moment for him," Laszlo told his club's official website, www.heartsfc.co.uk.

"He did very well for us last season and signed a new contract. We saw many players leave in the summer and I do not want to lose many more.

"But I know how football works and if someone is doing well then it is okay for clubs to be looking at them.

"We have a young team at Hearts and need experience. Lee is just 22 but is a senior international. He has been part of our defence this season and has helped us a lot at the back.

"He is still learning in the game but is a player who wants to work hard. He is one of the best in his position in Scotland and can be a national player for a long time.

"If you tell me a club is interested in him, then I say this is normal."

Wallace impressed on his Scotland debut and kept his place in the squad for Saturday's friendly in Wales.

Meanwhile, Laszlo reckons the club's Algerian defender, Ismael Bouzid, has not been performing as well lately as he did earlier in the season due to the fact he is taking on too much responsibility.

"He's definitely played better before," said Laszlo. "Bouzid is a guy who, at the moment, would like to do too much.

"He sees we are struggling sometimes and he is too busy.

"I told him he needs to play a simple game and he now has two weeks (due to the international break] to think about this.

"I think in the next round of games we will get more points and be more focused as a team. This is what I wish for from Bouzid and also the other players."