HEARTS manager Csaba Laszlo today urged Christophe Berra and Michael Stewart to seize the moment with Scotland this evening after the Edinburgh club reiterated that their captain will not be sold.
Another inquiry from Wolverhampton Wanderers regarding Berra's availability has been rebuffed by Hearts who want the defender to remain a cornerstone of the side. Wolves previously had offers of £1million and £1.5m rejected and a fresh inquiry has se
en Hearts reaffirm their stance.
"They're not selling him," said Mick McCarthy, the Wolves manager. "They want to build a team around him. It's like someone ringing us up about Michael Kightly – he's not for sale. Someone might say, 'we'll come back', and we'd say, 'no, naff off'."
Berra and Stewart are currently on Scotland duty for this evening's friendly with Northern Ireland and Laszlo believes two of his most influential players can take the chance to establish themselves at international level.
To date, Berra has one full cap and Stewart three, the last of the midfielder's appearances being back in 2002 on a post-season tour of the Far East.
"Berra is the captain and is a leader for us, but Michael is also a leader in the midfield," said Laszlo. "Berra is growing into his role as captain and he can have a big future with Hearts and also Scotland. He is young but he is hungry and these are the players we want.
"I think he is ready to be with Scotland for many years and this is an important chance for him to take a place in the team tonight.
"Michael is back with Scotland after many years but it is the same situation. If he plays, he must play the same way as he does for Hearts and there will be no problem. Both guys are vital to us and I think they could be important to their country in the future."
Laszlo is anticipating several injured first-team players returning to training over the coming days, including striker Mike Tullberg and winger Mirsad Beslija. Gary Glen may also come into consideration for this weekend's visit of St Mirren to Tynecastle.
"Glen is back and I know that he is a young and promising player. Everybody has a chance to play but it's important to take steps forward slowly and have the team together. Gary is back with the squad and everything is possible.
"Robbie Neilson is beginning to train with the ball, which is very positive, but I would say that he needs a little bit time."
Meanwhile, Hearts have announced the departure of Alex Koslovski with immediate effect. The Russian had been employed in a consultancy role and helped negotiate players' contracts but has now severed ties with the club.
The full article contains 464 words and appears in Edinburgh Evening News newspaper.
