Hearts boss Csaba Laszlo today insisted Christos Karipidis' decision to sign a pre-contract with Omonia Nicosia will not jeopardise his place in the team as the race for Europe intensifies.

The Greek defender will complete his switch to the Cypriot club at the end of the season after deciding to move for family reasons.

Christos revealed to Hearts News yesterday that he will continue to give his all as he bids to help the team qualify for Europe - and Csaba today confirmed the 26-year-old will keep his place in the side as the Jambos seek to secure a Europa League place in the last five games of the Clydesdale Bank Premier League season.

"If Karipidis is fit, he will play," said Csaba.

"He is a good professional. We have five games left to play and hopefully we can stay in third place with Kari in the team.

"If he keeps clear of injuries, then he will be in the team, definitely."

Csaba was philosophical about his player's decision to quit Scotland, adding: "I am little bit sad that he is leaving but this football.

"I had been hoping to have him here next season but now we have a new situation which we must look at. This is life."

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On Hearts.TV today, a string of exclusive interviews from the Hearts Youth Development Awards gala evening.