Beslija loan 'insulting' - Agent

The winger has barely played for the Jambos since joining for £850,000 from Belgian club Racing Genk in January. The 26-year-old arrived in Scotland with an impressive CV but made just five appearances last season - two of those as a substitute.

Beslija has already been linked with a short-term move to Barclays Premiership newcomers Reading in England. But representative Sam Stapleton insists the former Zeljeznicar man remains determined to prove himself with the Jambos in the Bank of Scotland Premier League next year. Stapleton said: "It would be an insult to talk about sending Mirsad out on loan."

He added: "He has the ability to play in Scotland, so why would he have to go to England to be able to play in Scotland? I've been in contact with people at Hearts and, if we can't arrange a meeting next week, then we will speak over the phone about the situation.

"Things should be clearer then and we should have a better idea of where we go. There's a whole new season ahead and, if he plays a part in it, then good - if not, then we will have to look elsewhere."

Stapleton admits he is puzzled as to why his client's move to Edinburgh has turned sour. He added: "Mirsad was the club's record signing and we were under the impression he would play, so it's been a surprise he hasn't.

"He deserved a move to Scotland and got one, but now it hasn't worked out. Mirsad is disappointed not to be playing football, that's all he wants to do.

"But, although he has not been playing, he is a professional. He has come in every day, trained and just got on with his job."