BY ALAN TEMPLE – @CCP_Sport
Hearts director of football Craig Levein is hopeful star winger Jamie Walker will feature for the Jambos before the turn of the year.
The 22-year-old has been plagued by a persistent knee complaint since facing Dundee at Dens Park in August and has spent much of this season playing through the pain barrier.
However, the injury has seen him sidelined for the capital club’s last three fixtures as they attempt to nurse the former Scotland under-21 international back to full fitness.
Levein confirmed that Hearts expect to have him back in light training imminently and believe he could play some part during a pivotal December, which includes encounters against Aberdeen and Celtic.
Using his official Twitter account, former Scotland boss Levein said: “He’s one of our best players so it’s a blow that he’s injured. He will resume light training shortly and hopefully play in Dec [December].”
Hearts saw their winning streak in the Premiership halted after four matches on Saturday as a Rory Loy strike rescued a 1-1 draw for Dundee at Tynecastle.
Arnaud Djoum had given the Jambos the lead during the first half, but Levein admits the hosts under-performed in front of another sell-out crowd.
He added: “We have had better days. Must & will do better in the games ahead. Thanks for the backing today. Our expectations exceed [Saturday’s] performance.”
