Wouter Vrancken spoke to the media ahead of Heart of Midlothian’ Conference League play-off first leg against Rapid Vienna on Thursday. He confirmed that a transfer for Rhode Island FC striker JJ Williams is "happening on the background" while insisting the focus must remain on the current squad.
Vrancken said the club is in a hectic run of games and that the move for Williams is a priority, but the team must be "almost perfect" to beat Rapid. He added that Heart of Midlothian have been unbeaten in three games after a four-match losing start, and that the club must go all in to secure league-phase football.
The manager highlighted the status of key players. Harry Milne and Laurent Mendy are listed as doubts, with Mendy potentially fit for next week. He praised Rapid Vienna’s style, describing them as "better on the ball" than fellow Austrians Sturm Graz, who defeated Heart of Midlothian 6-0 in Champions League qualifying. Vrancken noted Rapid have a strong pressure style, physicality and the quality to score goals.
Heart of Midlothian need to "go all in" on their last chance to reach the league phase, Vrancken said. "Everybody wants to play in Europe in those league phases. For the club it's also important. Also financially probably, but this is something for other people. But I think the sporting side of it, every player, every coach wants to play as far as possible in Europe," he added.
Vrancken also commented on the appointment of Belgian Sebastien Pocognoli as Scotland manager. "Yes, for sure it was a surprise. Also in Belgium. I know him pretty good because I played with him as a player in Genk. He's a good guy, 100%. He did some really good things with Union [St-Gilloise], let's hope he can show the same things with Scotland. He can call me when he wants. He has my number," he said.
The match against Rapid Vienna is seen as Heart of Midlothian’ final opportunity to secure a place in the league phase of the Conference League, with the club needing a strong performance to progress.
