Ivanauskas urges Webster to stay

Andy Webster is in contract dispute with Hearts

Interim Hearts head coach Valdas Ivanauskas has confirmed he is staying at Hearts - and believes that defender Andy Webster should follow suit.

Webster was dropped after a contract row with owner Vladimir Romanov, who is still to choose a permanent head coach.

"I know which position Vladimir wants me in, but we are not quite 100% ready yet," said Ivanauskas.

"And I need Andy. It's still possible that he could stay, but it depends on what he wants to do."

Scotland defender Webster, who is still under contract next season, had rejected an offer of a new deal from Hearts.

And he then missed the end to the season as Hearts finished second in the Scottish Premier League and lifted the Scottish Cup.

Andy is a very important player and I want him to stay at Hearts Interim Hearts coach Valdas Ivanauskas

But Ivanauskas told the Edinburgh Evening News: "From my point of view, Andy must stay.

"Andy must also want to stay with Hearts for the long term. I have no problem with Andy.

"He is a good player, a good professional and a good man.

"Andy is a very important player and I want him to stay at Hearts, but I must ask him what his position is.

"He is on holiday, but I will call him before we go back for pre-season training to discuss his situation."

Meanwhile, Ivanauskas believes he is in the running to be permanent head coach but will be remaining at Tynecastle even if he misses out.

"I will know more in 10 or 12 days," he said. "Maybe then I will be head coach.

"I'll stay at Hearts 100%. Whether I'll be head coach or assistant, I can't say, but I'm pleased to stay."