Bank On Us To Play Our Hearts Out All Season

Feb 3 2008 By Scott Mcdermott

DEFIANT keeper Steve Banks refuses to admit Hearts' season is over after their CIS Cup exit.

The Englishman also vowed to stamp down on any Tynecastle player who doesn't pull his weight for the rest of the campaign.

Banks admits Steve Frail's squad were close to crying in the Hampden dressing-room in midweek after the 2-0 semi-final loss to Rangers.

But the 35-year-old dismissed claims the Edinburgh club have nothing left to play for - despite being out of all cup competitions and sitting in the bottom half of the SPL.

Banks said: "I'd like anyone to tell meI've got nothing to play for because I certainly wouldn't agree.

"We have a lot to claw back but are looking to get as high up the table as possible. Our season isn't over.

"We will make sure we're up for every single game. That's down to the management, senior players and every individual at Hearts.

"They've got to give everything no matter who we're playing.

"We don't want any slackers in our team and we'll tell them if they are.

"The squad's attitude has changed in the last few months since Stevie took charge. You only have to look at recent performances to see that.

"The lads were close to tears at Hampden and we're still gutted. But we'll dust ourselves off and come back fighting again. No one can question our attitude or passion."

Banks revealed how recent team meetings between Jambos players have brought a new-found togetherness and resilience.

His only regret is they didn't get their act together at the start of the season.

He said: "The players haven't changed, it's the same ones who were under-achieving a month ago so that's really frustrating.

"But we aretogether now. We've had team meetings and certain things have happened within the club.

"We're looking at a brighter future. We want the top six and if we don't get it we'll be bitterly disappointed."

The former Bolton and Gillingham shot-stopper recently signed a new deal at Tynecastle - despite interest from CIS Cup conquerors Rangers.

Banks said: "I don't think I came close to leaving. It was down to the two clubs who couldn't agree so that's it.

"I'm enjoying playing and coaching at Hearts. Rangers are a fantastic club and it would have been an honour to work with the talent they've got.

"But I'm a Hearts player and as all the fans can see I give 100 per cent in every game and I'll continue to do that.

"I came to Hearts as No.2 under Craig Gordon but he has moved on and I'm keen to take this chance."