Hearts interim head coach Stephen Frail believes "three or four" new players are needed for the club to become a force in the SPL.Even though Frail might not even be in the hotseat come August, as owner Vladimir Romanov continues his search for a new manager, he has identified possible summer transfer targets.

Hearts' failure to finish in the top six for the first time since the SPL split was introduced has emphasised the need to add close-season reinforcements.

He said: "We will look at bringing in three or four players to enhance the squad, hopefully that will happen.

"New faces give everyone a lift, especially the players that are here.

"It should give everyone fresh impetus and desire to make sure we do well next season.

"We have set out to look at players, we are enhancing our scouting system to make sure we get the best players, not only in Great Britain but abroad."

But Frail, speaking just hours after Hearts chairman Roman Romanov told the club AGM the interim head coach deserves a chance at the helm, concedes he may not be a popular choice.

Frail, who will be in the dugout for Saturday's visit of St Mirren in the first post-split fixture, said: "I don't think I'd be the fans' first choice, I make no bones about that.

"I am not silly to think I'd be a fans' favourite if I was given the job.

"When I look at the results we have achieved since January, we'd be sitting third in the league.

"From where we have come and from the quality we have lost, I would look upon that as a real positive.

"If we can get more quality in next year, who knows what we can do?

"Again, I am leaving the decisions up to the owner. Whatever happens, happens.

"I think the frustrations from the fans are not always directed at me.

"The whole club is frustrated, myself more than anyone. I think that boils over and I'm the focal point at the front of it standing on the touchline."

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