The administrator of Hearts claims news that UBIG has been declared insolvent by a Lithuanian court is "positive" for the club's survival hopes.

Bryan Jackson of BDO says the move will allow negotiations over securing the Kaunas-based bank's shares in the club to progress.

UBIG – which owns a 50% share in the Tynecastle outfit and is owed £10million by the club – had its assets frozen earlier this year but administrators have yet to be appointed.

However, that process can now get under way following yesterday's decision – although Jackson claims a final outcome is still some way off yet.

He said: "It's positive news for the club. At least the appointment of an administrator can now be made.

"Unfortunately, this is just the start of the process. From what I'm told by people in Lithuania, an appeal may be lodged and that can take up to 10 days.

"The initial timescale that I have been given is that it could take a number of weeks before we get a final resolution.

"However, the signs are good because we are finally getting to a point where the ownership of the shares will be resolved and we can start negotiations in the meantime."

BDO was appointed by the club last month and it hopes to find a new buyer for the club and settle their debts by way of a Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA).

Three parties have submitted formal offers and proof of funding to BDO – supporters' consortium the Foundation of Hearts, HMFC Limited and Five Stars Football Limited.

BDO is now in the process of naming a preferred bidder for the Edinburgh club.