Keeper Basso released by Hearts

Hearts have released goalkeeper Anthony Basso after he failed to win a first-team place under Csaba Laszlo.

The 29-year-old Frenchman made seven appearances during his 18 months with the Scottish Premier League club after leaving French outfit Auxerre.

But none have come since the new manager's summer arrival at Tynecastle.

And Hearts this month agreed a fee for the transfer of Janos Balogh from Hungarian club Debrecen following a successful loan spell in Edinburgh.

First Division outfit Livingston failed in an attempt to sign Basso on loan during the summer, but the goalkeeper was later told he was free to find another club.

Meanwhile, Hearts midfielder Ruben Palazuelos has been warned that he cannot expect to walk straight back into the Hearts team for the weekend trip to Hamilton.

Michael Stewart has played very well and, at the moment, I would say he is first choice in midfield

The Spanish midfielder has missed the last two matches with a knee injury picked up in their Scottish Cup victory over Hibernian.

He has returned to training and should be part of the squad for this weekend's SPL match at New Douglas Park.

Hearts have taken maximum points in their matches during Palazuelos' absence - with the recalled Michael Stewart receiving plaudits.

And Laszlo hinted that he is unlikely to make changes to an in-form midfield.

"Michael Stewart has played very well and, at the moment, I would say he is first choice," Laszlo told Hearts' website.

"It is good that Ruben is coming back. It is good to have competition for places and everyone can use his chance when it comes along.

"I will look tactically at the situation and then decide. But it is not about the names - the important thing is the team."

Taken from the BBC