The former FBK Kaunas coach was recruited by Hearts during the close season and club owner Vladimir Romanov said Cervenkov would be "in charge of the reserve team" and "assistant to the head coach".

However, Cervenkov appears to have been promoted and said: "It's a big responsibility, but I am ambitious to prove myself at Hearts.

"I have some ideas, and I've got some experience - there was no way I was going to turn down such an opportunity.

"If I were to say that it is easy for a Bulgarian coach to manage in Scotland, I would be lying. It's tough, but in the end all that matters are the results. If [Hearts] fans are happy, I have nothing to worry about."

Cervenkov added that winning over the Gorgie side's supporters would be his first priority.

"The crowds were my biggest surprise when I came to Scotland," he said. "Hearts' fans are unbelievable, their support for the team is fantastic. I am certain that they will support me if they see some positive changes, that's my mission.

"I believe that if I am given time, I will go on to achieve something good with Hearts."