Tomaschek boost for Hearts

HEARTS boss Craig Levein has received a huge boost with midfielder Robert Tomaschek returning to full training for the first time in six months.

The Slovakian powerhouse took part in a short practice game with the rest of his team-mates yesterday, much to the delight of his manager.

Although he is still some way short of competitive action, his progress has provided a huge lift for the Jambos.

"Robert took part in a full training session for the first time since his injury," said Levein. "It was a big step for him to play in a game, even although it was just a small one.

"He is a wee bit away yet but I expect him to be definitely back with us in the first team by the end of the season."

Tomaschek tore his cruciate ligament against Celtic at Parkhead in early August to deal a hammer blow to Levein’s plans for the season, the former Slovak skipper having blossomed into an influential player under the guidance of the former Scotland star.

"His experience and energy in the middle of the park has been a big loss for us and it’s great that he has done so well in his rehabilitation," added Levein.

While the midfielder’s return to training has come at an important time for the Hearts boss, Levein has been handed a selection headache for this weekend’s clash with Kilmarnock after it was discovered striker Andy Kirk has been playing with a back problem for the past month or so.

With Ricardo Fuller suspended for the trip to Rugby Park, the Northern Ireland internationalist was the leading candidate to replace the Jamaican after impressing for the Under-21s in recent weeks.

However, although he came off the bench for the last half-hour of Saturday’s defeat by Rangers at Tynecastle, Kirk has been complaining of a stiffness in his lower back.

Tests have shown the problem is connected to one of his discs, with surgeons recommending complete rest for around five weeks.

Levein is keen to use Kirk against Bobby Williamson’s outfit but will not risk the long-term health of the 22-year-old.

He will make a final decision after consulting with the medical experts later this week.

"It is obviously something which we will have to think very carefully about," he said.

"Doctors have advised complete rest and it is not something which we will take any chances with."

LAST night’s under-21 clash with St Mirren was called off an hour before kick-off after heavy rain made Forthbank unplayable.

Taken from the Scotsman