Romanov set to step up Hearts recruitment drive

VLADIMIR ROMANOV was intending to accelerate Hearts' player recruitment process today by meeting the Portuguese agent Paulo Barbosa to discuss potential new signings.

With just over four weeks left until the SPL season begins and new faces yet to appear at Riccarton, Romanov is preparing to take matters into his own hands in the absence of a first-team manager.

Barbosa, a close ally of the majority shareholder, has been asked to recommend potential recruits for Hearts having previously furnished the club with players such as midfielders Bruno Aguiar and Ruben Palazuelos, as well as former striker Edgaras Jankauskas.

The Russian businessman was in London last night accompanied by Tynecastle director Sergejus Fedotovas as Hearts received a CommunityMark award, recognition of their hands-on involvement in local activities through the club's education and community trust.

Today's discussions with Barbosa could quicken the process of trying out new signings, with trialists expected to arrive before or during this month's pre-season tour of Germany.

Romanov is also continuing his search for a suitable manager who will lead Hearts into the new season. With club officials stressing that an appointment is likely in the near future, Romanov wants his new coach in place before the team depart for their ten-day German trip, during which they will play three friendly matches.

He has spoken with Laszlo Csaba, the Hungarian national coach of Uganda but, as the Evening News revealed on Friday, is set to interview another candidate this week.

Meanwhile, discussions are still being held over the Tynecastle future of Fernando Screpis with the Argentine's agent Juan Cobian.