Neilson back in training

PAUL KIDDIE

DEFENDER Robbie Neilson has handed Hearts boss Craig Levein a timely boost ahead of this weekend’s derby by training for the first time since the Jambos’ UEFA Cup win in Bordeaux.

The full-back hobbled out of the 1-0 triumph in France after going over his ankle and was forced to sit out the victory over Aberdeen.

However, after responding to treatment he has resumed training and should be in the frame for a return to the squad for the visit of Hibs.

Patrick Kisnorbo and Stephen Simmons are also well on the mend after being sidelined by foot injuries, the pair having returned to full training earlier this week.

The Aussie ace is set to return to the starting line-up at the weekend, while Simmons is also likely to feature in Levein’s squad.

Levein was today facing an anxious wait to discover the full extent of the facial damage sustained by skipper Steven Pressley in Scotland’s 6-0 defeat from Holland in Amsterdam. The Gorgie star was caught by Patrick Kluivert and lost two front teeth.

"Patrick Kluivert caught me with an elbow," said Pressley. "I don’t think it was intentional but it was very painful and I have lost two front teeth. Others have been pushed out of place and it will need to be looked at."

Taken from the Scotsman