Laszlo urges Hearts players to be adaptable

CSABA LASZLO today outlined his tactical vision for Hearts, stressing that the team must become adaptable on the pitch whilst playing attractive but ultimately successful football.

The Hungarian manager spoke to the Evening News to convey ideas for the forthcoming season. His tenure began in Belfast on Monday night as Hearts drew 1-1 with Glentoran and continues against Dunfermline at East End Park this evening.

Laszlo's 4-2-3-1 formation in Northern Ireland was a new concept to the Tynecastle squad and supporters can expect to see more tinkering during matches this season. His intention is to imbue the squad with tactical variations which can be implemented instantaneously depending on the challenge facing Hearts.

"My basic system is 4-4-2, which I know is widely used in Scottish football. I use it a lot but I will teach any team I coach to have the flexibility to change," said the former Ugandan national coach. "Sometimes it might be 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3 or 4-4-2 with a diamond midfield. The most important thing is to know the capabilities of the players you have and which system they can play.

"You cannot press a player into a system in which he cannot play. For me, the basic is 4-4-2 and I want to play attractive football. But the most important thing is winning. If you play attractive football and don't score you have problems. Nobody will talk about your tactics then, only the lack of goals.

"We must be aggressive in midfield. I don't want to see players not knowing what to do if they lose the ball, they must learn. This is all part of tactics and it's all taken from training. I hope I can deliver very good results in quick time."

Laszlo is confident of fielding a fully fit and fully functioning side come the SPL's opening day on August 9. "We only have four weeks, which is a short time," he admitted. "The first games are very important. If you can win maybe the first three games then you build a confidence. Every coach believes in his methods and I believe in mine, but I'm very realistic and I know what potential this team has. We must be better than last season, we must go higher.

"I believe in my knowledge and my work. I want to be the best, every time. Bringing success to Hearts is the most important thing."

Meanwhile it was claimed today that the Ugandan FA (FUFA) are threatening to call in FIFA over compensation for losing their manager. Laszlo was appointed at Tynecastle at the end of last week, ending Vladimir Romanov's seven-month search for a new boss, however the Africans want around £100,000 for Laszlo's services.

Hearts, though, are expected to reject their claims as the Ugandans are accused of breaching Laszlo's contract by failing to pay him for the last two months. However FUFA spokesman Rogers Mulindwa said: "Now there is no proper communication.

"Hearts are quiet. We have made phone calls but seem not to talk to the right people.

"We will next petition FIFA. Laszlo will lose his job and remain between Hearts and the Cranes if he is not careful."