Hearts put Finnish international on trial

HEARTS have granted a trial to Finnish international midfielder Kari Arkivuo as manager Jim Jefferies continues attempts to reinforce midfield options ahead of the new season.

Arkivuo, 27, is currently out of contract at Go Ahead Eagles in Holland's second division, the Eerste Divisie, and has earned a reputation as an attacking midfielder during spells in Holland, Norway and his homeland.

He holds eight full caps for Finland and will be assessed by Jefferies and the Hearts coaching staff at Riccarton over the next few days. He may also travel to England with the squad for next week's friendlies against Gillingham and Millwall.

"He's one that's been recommended to us so we're having a look at him over the next couple of days and then we can take it from there," said Jefferies.