Pressley backs Valdas for job

Steven Pressley has backed Valdas Ivanauskas to become Hearts manager.

Ivanauskas took over at Tynecastle following the sacking of Graham Rix in March and he has guided the side into the final of the Scottish Cup.

Hearts captain Pressley has been impressed by Ivanauskas and believes he has done enough to secure the job on a permanent basis.

"I think he has done himself a lot of favours with the performances of the team and I`m sure he will be in consideration for the job come the end of the season," said Pressley.

"Valdas has been very good. He has been in the background for some time now and he is very well respected.

"He's a good coach. One thing I've always believed about good managers and good coaches is they have a good relationship with the players but there is a line you never cross.

"Valdas seems to have that and that's important in a coach."

Despite a tough season off the pitch Pressley remains confident Hearts can see off the challenge of Rangers by finishing second in the SPL and securing a lucrative spot in next season's UEFA Champions League.

"As a group of players, and as a dressing room, throughout the season we have shown our unity and spirit and that will go on," added Pressley.

"We have two-and-a-half weeks left of what has been a very enduring season and we could make this season one of the most memorable in the club`s history by achieving Champions League football and the possibility of winning the Scottish Cup.

"Those goals should be an inspiration to us all."