It looks as if Hearts will get the 2009/2010 season underway with a new look defence whether they like it or not.
New recruit Ismael Bouzid is suffering from a shoulder injury which is to be assessed by the Tynie medical team. The Algeria internationalist is a big part of gaffer Csaba Laszlo's plans but he might have to sit out he SPL opener against Dundee United at Tannadice on Monday night.
With Marius Zaliukas serving a four game domestic ban carried over from last term, it could be a pairing of Jose Goncalves, returning after a loan stint in Germany, and new signing Dawid Kucharski. With Larry Kingston subject to a late fitness test and Andy Driver and Calum Elliott also crooked, it's going to be an interesting team that will take the field!