Goalkeeper Basso faces test to stay at Hearts

ANTHONY BASSO'S ability to establish himself as Hearts' first-choice goalkeeper will determine whether he stays at Tynecastle beyond the summer.

The Frenchman's long-term future is rated doubtful by his agent, Tomasso Angelini, who claims that clubs both in Britain and on the continent are monitoring his client. Basso will consider leaving Hearts before the new SPL campaign begins if he cannot secure the goalkeeping position, currently held by the veteran Steve Banks.

The Evening News revealed details of a fallout between Basso and the Tynecastle hierarchy back in April as negotiations over a contract extension for the 28-year-old collapsed. The acrimony from that affair still exists between both parties, with Angelini reluctant to speak about the goalkeeper's relations with senior management. Although his current contract still has 12 months to run, Basso's future will be decided over the next few weeks once the Hearts squad return for pre-season training.

"He is still a Hearts player, but leaving before August 31 is a possibility. It depends on many things," said Angelini. "Anthony wants to stay and play regular football. Of course, he is not happy with second choice, he wants to be the number one.

"There is interest in Anthony from the UK and Europe, but I don't know what Hearts want. We are waiting for them to give us a sign of their intentions. Anthony still has another year on his contract, but I'd rather not comment on his relationship with the management."

Basso made eight appearances for Hearts last season, which featured three victories, four draws and one defeat. He joined the club last August on a free transfer from the French side Auxerre.