Brazilian ace backs new Hearts boss

Brazilian midfielder Cristiano, who played under the Portuguese coach at both Paos Ferreira and Sporting Lisbon, expects the 43-year-old to bring success to Hearts.

Sergio initially helped launch Cristiano's career at Paos before signing him for Sporting earlier this year. Cristiano told the Evening News of his respect for the man now entrusted with guiding Hearts into the Europa League play-off round after Jim Jefferies' departure. "Paulo Sergio is a good person and a good coach," said Cristiano. "I don't have anything bad to say about him. He works very hard at his job and he helps his players. He helped my career progress. He has a good character and he is strong. I think he can help Hearts, he is determined to succeed. He learned at a lower level in Portugal but he also has experience in Europe. He is an honest man who will work hard."

Sergio took training at Riccarton yesterday morning and has already stated he is out to win his first match in charge against the Hungarians. "We started working and we're going to try to begin to pass our ideas to the players from the first moment," he explained. "We know it's an important game for us and we're just thinking about winning the game."

Jefferies refused a director of football role at Tynecastle after being removed as manager by Hearts' majority shareholder Vladimir Romanov. He opted to sever ties with the club. "Even though I'm disappointed at leaving the club and everyone knows my strong connection to Hearts, I'd like to thank the club for the opportunity myself and Billy have had in the last 18 months. I also appreciate the offer to develop in a new role at Hearts, however it has perhaps come too soon and it might be something that I would consider at a later date. I want to wish the players and staff all the best for the forthcoming season."