Peter Houston still in talks over Hearts job

HEARTS were holding further talks with Peter Houston today and hope to appoint him as their new manager as soon as possible.

The Tynecastle board want a permanent replacement for John McGlynn in time for Sunday’s League Cup final and Houston is the clear favourite for the job.

The former Dundee United manager was identified from a shortlist also containing John Robertson and Derek McInnes, neither of whom have been 
approached. Houston, 54, held discussions with Hearts managing director David Southern and director of football John Murray last week, with more talks planned for today.

“I had questions to ask and they were very honest – and we’ll speak again,” said Houston. Hearts want a new man in place before the Hampden Park showpiece against St Mirren this weekend, although Gary Locke has made a positive impression on the club hierarchy as interim manager.

He was in charge for 
yesterday’s 0-0 draw with Hibs in the Edinburgh derby at 
Easter Road, which followed last Tuesday’s 2-0 home win over St Johnstone. Locke 
said he has no idea what the board plans to do but would welcome the appointment of Houston.

“If anything happens, I’m sure the club will let us know,” continued Locke. “I 
know Housty well, he was youth coach at Hearts when I was a player here. We go back a long way. Until we get told 
anything differently, we’ll just carry on.”