Wales tonic for Hearts ahead of Terrors clash

Hearts have been boosted for the trip to face Dundee United by the news that Gary Wales has signed a new contract with the club.

The striker still had a year of his current deal to run but, after negotiations this week, Wales opted to extend his contract by a further two years, prolonging his stay at Tynecastle until 2004.

Following the signings of Austin McCann, Andy Webster and the recent re-signing of young Andy Kirk, head coach Craig Levein is certain the move bodes well for the club's long-term future.

He said: "This is part of the rebuilding we are trying to do at the club.

"That is now Kirk on board and McCann, who is also a young player, signed. We have Scott Severin - who is the captain of the Scotland Under-21 team - here and we have recently signed Andy Webster, who is a very exciting talent.

"These are all young boys and players we are excited about.

"We also have several players, like Stephen Simmons and Ryan Davidson, who are coming through the youth ranks and have a chance, so there are exciting times ahead.

"We are happy with Gary and he is happy here, so we are delighted he has signed an extension to his contract."

Levein's rebuilding programme has also paid dividends with the first team on the pitch.

Recent results have taken the Edinburgh club into fourth place, with Europe now a distinct possibility.

But the manager has also been impressed by the changes made at Tannadice by Alex Smith and he knows a trip to Tayside is no longer to be relished.

He added: "There has been a vast improvement under Alex.

"He has brought leadership and settled the club down both on and off the pitch. There is not as much negative press and he has done a great job.

"It is tough for any team going to Tannadice.

"However, our intention is to win and if we perform the way we have recently, we will give ourselves a good chance.

"Fortunately we are close to a full squad so decision making is slightly more difficult. But it is a good position to be in."

Levein has Steve Fulton out with a knee injury, while Stephane Adam will miss the match because of a thigh pull and Kenny Milne's season looks to be over after he suffered an ankle injury on his return from a knee problem.

Smith is likely to give a starting berth to influential midfielder David Hannah, who missed last week's league win over Rangers at Ibrox and started Wednesday's 4-1 defeat at Aberdeen on the substitutes' bench.

Jamie Hamilton could also return after recovering from an Achilles problem as the Tangerines chase a win which could ease their relegation fears.

With basement outfit St Mirren expected to be mere onlookers at Celtic's title party, victory could take United six points clear of the Buddies with just five games remaining.

"Defeat against Aberdeen on Wednesday served to remind my players that they are not out of danger yet," he said.

"Even more hard work is required to turn things around and points against Hearts have become vital.

"They are an attractive side under their new young management team and we will have to be at our best to beat them."