Off the pitch, it was all change as the club was taken over by Lithuanian businessman Vladimir Romanov who appointed George Burley as Hearts’ third manager in nine months.

The new regime aim to challenge the Old Firm one day, but since the Jambos finished more than 40 points off the pace it’s not a realistic proposition this season. Manager George Burley has strengthened he squad with the move for Porto's Latvian striker Edgaras Jankauskas, who should be the first of several new signings. They are a best-priced 11-4 to finish third but even that may be too far this season, with Burley forced to rebuild a depleted squad and placate a number of unsettled players. Defensively, Hearts were very strong last term and Burley is particularly keen to add a quality striker to the side.

Porto striker Edgaras Jankauskas is on trial.

Pressley looks to have resolved any outstanding issues and now looks unlikely to leave the building. However, Rangers may still make a move for Andy Webster after the decision by Sotirios Kyrgiakos to turn down an appearance based contract. The other half of the Old Firm, Celtic, seem to have lost interest in Hartley since Martin O'Neill's departure.