Valdas Ivanauskas (right) said Hartley had a future at Hearts

Hartley, 30, appeared in public alongside former captain Steven Pressley in October, when the latter said there was "dressing room unrest".

"Paul Hartley is staying in the team," Ivanauskas said.

"He had positive discussions with the management of the club and is still staying with the club."

Statement: PFA secretary Fraser Wishart

Hartley, 30, has been overlooked for the captain's armband after Pressley left the club last weekend by mutual consent. The former skipper had criticised team affairs under owner Vladimir Romanov.

Scotland goalkeeper Craig Gordon will lead the side in Pressley's absence, but Ivanauskas said Hartley had an important role to play at Hearts.

He has a contract for 18 months and, from my side, he stays here Hearts head coach Valdas Ivanauskas

"Paul is important and I have no problem with him. He is maybe unhappy with his game at the moment, but I know how good he is," he said.

"He has a contract for 18 months and, from my side, he stays here - and in the team."

Hartley remained tight-lipped following his disciplinary hearing and players' union secretary Fraser Wishart said the discussion with the club would remain confidential.

Hartley and goalkeeper Craig Gordon flanked Pressley when he made his statement about dressing-room unrest.

Scotland international Hartley is under contract with the Edinburgh club until 2008.