Hearts admit to Ranieri talks

Seems like the way out from English Premier League is to their neighbours...

SPL outfit Hearts have confirmed former Chelsea manager Claudio Ranieri could well become the club’s new manager, following George Burley’s resignation last week.

Former Newcastle manager Bobby Robson had emerged as the club’s favourite to land the managerial position, but rumours former Valencia and Chelsea manager Claudio Ranieri was also in the Edinburgh-based club’s frame quickly spread among the media.

Since then, Hearts have confirmed talks had been initiated with both prestigious candidates, but the SPL club refused to name a favourite in the race for the vacant job.

"We can confirm talks with various applicants, including both Ranieri and Robson. That is in line with the type of pedigree that we are looking for and we are encouraged by the talks so far,” said a Hearts spokesman.

Ranieri has been without a club since last February, following a second spell with Valencia that lasted less than 9 months. He also confirmed to the press he was more than interested in landing the Hearts job.

"I think that could be a good project. The first meeting is important and it was good. I think Vladimir Romanov wants to do something very important and I'm looking for a good project,” Ranieri told BBC.