Hearts are still in the dark over reports Vladimir Romanov is poised to appoint a new sporting director at the club.

The Jambos confirmed majority shareholder Romanov had visited Tynecastle on Tuesday and had addressed Csaba Laszlo's squad.

But they said they had no knowledge former Lithuania Under-19 coach Ivan Svabovic is set to fill the position left vacant by Anatoly Korobochka this summer.

After Hearts stunned Celtic at Parkhead to reach the Co-operative Insurance Cup semi-finals, manager Laszlo insisted he would welcome a new sporting director, dismissing claims Polish-born Svadovic had already been appointed.

Laszlo, who this week revealed his frustration at watching the club go backwards this season, also welcomed Romanov's visit, which appeared to have the desired effect ahead of the 1-0 win at Parkhead.