HEARTS received a major boost ahead of this afternoon’s clash with St Johnstone with the news that striker Ricardo Fuller looks set to face the Saints in Perth.

The 21-year-old has been struggling with an Achilles injury and was only able to take part in Saturday’s derby with Hibs at Tynecastle after passing a late fitness test.

Boss Craig Levein was concerned that he may have to rest his front man to prevent the possibility of any lasting damage.

However, Fuller is desperate to continue his recent good form for the Jambos having grabbed four goals in his last five starts.

Providing he suffers no reaction to yesterday’s training sessions, the Jamaican will once again partner Gary Wales in attack in Perth.

"Fuller trained on Monday and Tuesday and wants to play against St Johnstone," said Hearts No.2 Peter Houston.

"He seemed okay, and if he is feeling up to it then he will line up as usual at McDiarmid Park."

Defender Stephane Mahe is set to replace Austin McCann after missing the 1-1 draw with Hibs with a stomach bug.

Houston insists there will be no hangover from the weekend after losing a 90th-minute equaliser to their city rivals.

"It was a disappointment but we have to put that behind us," he added. "St Johnstone will be a hard game as they are at the bottom of the table and desperate for the points. It would be nice to start the New Year with a good result but we know we will have to work as hard."

Saints go into the clash five points adrift of Motherwell at the foot of the table and boss Billy Stark is looking for the win which could close that gap.

"Hearts have been on a very good run recently and we have to respect that," he said. "But with Motherwell going to Celtic - which is not an easy place to pick up points just now - victory over Hearts might just trim the gap to two points."

Paddy Connolly, Paul Kane and Ross Forsyth are all available again.

Taken from the Scotsman