Karipidis: I can talk a good game

May 4 2008 By Darren Johnstone

HEARTS star Christos Karipidis insists the departure of close pal Takis Fyssas from Tynecastle last summer is behind his recent good form - because it forced him to learn English.

The centre-half has formed a solid defensive partnership with Christophe Berra since the turn of the year and the Greek believes the fact he can now communicate with his team-mates has made all the difference.

Karipidis, a s200,000 signing from PAOK Salonika, was greeted on his arrival in Edinburgh in July 2006 by countryman Fyssas who helped him settle down to life in the SPL.

However the 25-year-old now admits relying on Fyssas also had a detrimental effect on his development as a player abroad - because he failed to learn the lingo.

Christos said: "When I came here my English was bad and I didn't understand a lot. It was also the first time I had moved from my family but Takis was here to help me.

"However, he never tried to speak English, he just spoke Greek to me.

"Takis left last summer and this season it is much better for me. I am now settled and know the players and the manager.

"I also now understand everything that is said and I can shout at the players in front of me and give them instructions."

Karipidis' form has been recognised by the club who want to extend his contract which expires next summer.

The player's agent has held talks with Hearts but Karipidis insists he wants to find out the level of ambition at Tynecastle before agreeing new terms.

Speaking ahead of tomorrow's live Setanta showdown at Falkirk he said: "There were talks about a new contract four weeks ago.

"I am happy here and my family is happy here but I must wait to see what happens because I want to play for high targets. I don't want to stay here and play in the bottom six."

Meanwhile, Jambos' caretaker coach Stevie Frail admits he could still be sacked even if the team manage to win all their bottom-six fixtures.

Despite missing out on the top tier in the SPL the Gorgie club's results have improved since Frail took charge in January.

And following the league split Stevie has masterminded two wins over St Mirren and Inverness.

But the coach admits he is in the dark about owner Vladimir Romanov's plans and that full points in the season's finale may make little difference to his prospects at the club.

Frail said: "I could win the next three games and still not be here next year.

"I've not been told one way or the other.

"All I can do is look to the next match at Falkirk and try to get three points."