Laszlo confident on Driver

SPL side Hearts’ manager Csaba Laszlo believes Andrew Driver would benefit from one more season at Tynecastle as Burnley renewed their interest in the winger.

Burnley have reportedly opened talks with Hearts over the England Under-21 international, but are unlikely to meet the Clydesdale Bank Premier League club’s £4million price tag.

Driver has four years left on his contract and his appearance for Stuart Pearce’s team in last month’s UEFA Under-21 Championship finals has prompted Hearts to demand more money for the pacy youngster.

Burnley boss Owen Coyle, who broke the club’s transfer record with the £3million purchase of Scotland striker Steven Fletcher last week, had a bid of around £750,000 rejected by Hearts last summer.

Coventry have previously had an offer turned down while Steve McClaren’s Twente Enschede have also been linked with the 21-year-old.

Laszlo is keen to retain Driver as he prepares for their Europa League campaign and he believes staying in Edinburgh is in the player’s best interests.

“Andrew Driver needs a little bit more time with us,” Laszlo said.

“I think next season, if he can play very well with us and stays injury-free, maybe we can talk about his future.”

“But this is a young player who improved a lot last season.”

“We must care about our players. I think it’s my job to care about the players. He listens to me.”

“I think Andy will play for Heart of Midlothian next season.”

Driver has always insisted he is in no rush to quit Hearts and has spoken of his excitement about the club’s European campaign.

And, while Laszlo knows the final decision rests with majority shareholder Vladimir Romanov, he is keen for the player’s wishes to be at the forefront of any outcome to the transfer talks.

“If you see what happened with Manchester United and Ronaldo, you have a limit,” Laszlo added.

“If you get this money, you must let him go.”

“But the player must also decide. I don’t like to make a decision over the head of the player.”

“I must sit down with the player, and money is not always the most important thing.”

“Andrew Driver must know he has a good team and a manager who will push him to a higher level.”

Laszlo was speaking as Hearts prepared to fly out to Germany for pre-season training and four friendly matches.

Driver was not with the squad having been given an extra two weeks off following his international exploits in Swede.