Hearts set to step up search for successor to Ian Cathro with interviews this week

BY ALAN TEMPLE – @CCP_Sport

HEARTS are set to begin the interview process to find Ian Cathro’s successor before the end of this week after wading through a swathe of applications for the post.

Owner Ann Budge and director of football Craig Levein have been inundated with interest in the vacancy, with high profile names such as Steve McClaren, Edgar Davids and Aidy Boothroyd showing an interest in the Tynecastle hot-seat.

The club have whittled their options down to a handful of credible candidates and Budge is keen to start the process of speaking to individuals within the next 48 hours.

While former England boss Steve McClaren IS a realistic contender for the job, it is understood he will not be among those interviewed this week. He could, however, be spoken to at a later date.

The process is expected to be somewhat protracted, with Hearts keen to take their time to find the right man following the ill-fated rein of Cathro, who departed the club with a record of eight wins in 30 games.

Prior commitments also mean Mrs Budge will be unable to carry out any interviews next week, ensuring interim head coach Jon Daly is likely to remain in the dugout until – at least – the trip to face Rangers next Saturday.