Waiting game

Jim Jefferies is till waiting to hear any news on striker Kevin Kyle, who has received another injection on his troublesome groin. Kyle, who has scored 10 goals since following Jefferies to Hearts from Kilmarnock last summer, has missed the last five games after being substituted during the Scottish Cup loss to St Johnstone on 11 January. Jefferies is hoping for a positive reaction to the latest injection, otherwise Kyle faces going under the knife and a four or five-week absence. The manager added: "If he still feels it that's the next thing to do, but the last thing you want to do is go through surgery. We'll give him every chance and that's the last resort."

Calum Elliot, David Obua and Suso Santana are also doubtful for Saturday, when Jefferies hopes to begin another unbeaten run following three wins and three losses in the last six games in all competitions.  Jefferies said: "None of these games will be easy, you have to earn the right to win them. But if we play as well as we know we can we know we'll make it difficult for other teams that play against us."