Hearts owner Vladimir Romanov has denied he is responsible for team selection at the Tynecastle club.

Speculation was rife ahead of last night's Bank of Scotland Premier League game against Dundee United that Romanov - who sanctioned the arrival of 11 new players last month - had taken control of team affairs.

Reports from inside Tynecastle suggested head coach Graham Rix had told his players he was no longer in charge of picking the team ahead of a game which saw six changes from the weekend.

Hearts drew the match 1-1 and skipper Steven Pressley has called a team meeting today.

But Romanov claims Rix is in charge of the team.

Speaking to the Daily Record Romanov said: "I think everyone is over-estimating my abilities a bit with these headlines I'm picking the team.

"All I've said is that I want every new player we've got to prove they are worth the money we've spent on them.

"I want each new player to work for the team properly but there is nothing correct in saying I pick the team, it's Rix's choice.

"I saw the players on Monday and again today but I haven't heard any indications from them they want to see me to discuss this issue.

"If they do, I will talk to them immediately but there is no point as Rix is in charge of picking the team."

Jambos captain Steven Pressley was due to hold a players' meeting this morning to discuss the matter.