Thanks for the drubbing

Last updated : 05 March 2011 By TwoTonTed
20100418-Tynecastle stadium sign 2Jim Jefferies has thanked Kilmarnock for stuffing his side 3-1 way back in October last year. That result spurred the Jmabos to go on a run of 10 wins and a draw in 11 games, only seeing their challenge at the top of the SPL stutter by losses to Celtic and Rangers. Hearts, though, remain in touch with the Old Firm ahead of today's home game with Kilmarnock after three wins and a draw in the last five games. Jefferies believes his team have improved since the last game between the teams in Gorgie and although wrapping up third place for Hearts is his aim, he would also like to see former club Killie finish high up the table.

He said: "It's a different game, we've improved a lot since then - it was a turning point for us. It worked out for both clubs, it gave us a shot in the arm that we needed and we responded and Kilmarnock took a lot of confidence from it. I said way back then that they would make the top six and I think I've been proved right so far. They've done extremely well. We want to get third place tied up and there's one club - no disrespect to the others - I want to finish fourth. They would deserve that because they've been great to watch this year."

Hearts are still  trailing Celtic and Rangers by nine and four points, respectively, but are 16 points clear of fourth-placed Killie. Jefferies believes a win today could secure third place in the table. He went on: "I think this one on Saturday could go a long way to cementing third place, but it will not be easy."

One of Jefferies problems for ahead of the game is just how will his squad be made up. Striker Kevin Kyle, who had a further injection on his troublesome groin this week, and suspended duo Ian Black and Ruben Palazuelos are out, while David Obua (shin) and Suso Santana (knee) missed last week's 0-0 draw at Aberdeen and may have to be ignored once more. Defenders Andy Webster (groin strain) and Lee Wallace (bruised ankle) are doubtful and their absence could impact on Jefferies' options at the back. Webster was released by Rangers in January following an injury-ravaged spell, but had started three games in his second spell for Hearts before coming off in the first half at Pittodrie. Jefferies added: "There was no tear in the groin, it was a slight strain. Whether it clears up in time for Saturday is another matter. Right now he's a doubt." Kyle has missed the last eight games as Hearts treat his groin problem with injections, rather than surgery, and Jefferies hopes a resolution is close. He said: "The plan is to let him have a couple of days and train maybe Monday and Tuesday of next week and see if it has improved and we can take it forward from there."

Marian Kello is set to continue in goal having had a major impact on Hearts' success this season. Jefferies believes Kello, the SPL Player of the Month for February, is a worthy candidate for Player of the Season. He said: "He's worth considering because he's had a fantastic season for us."