Hearts’ Danny Wilson set for Edinburgh derby

Danny Wilson has a problem with a hamstring

The 22-year-old was sidelined for the Hearts’ comprehensive 5-1 win over Dumbarton at the weekend after suffering a slight hamstring strain against Alloa in their previous outing. Teenager Jordan McGhee comfortably deputised during a dominant display against the Sons, but head coach Robbie Neilson will be keen to see his skipper in the starting line-up for what promises to be a sterner test at Easter Road.

Wilson was back on the training ground at the club’s Riccarton base yesterday. It is understood the Scotland international only took part in a light session, but he is expected to step up his recovery as the week progresses. Barring any setbacks in the coming days, he is expected to play.

Wilson’s return will come as a boost for Hearts, who continue to endure injury worries despite their commanding position at the summit of the Championship. James Keatings has missed the last three matches with a groin complaint, while it was confirmed this week that Dale Carrick faces a lengthy lay-off with a hamstring injury.

Meanwhile, Neilson remains “confident” that his pace-setters have the mentality to beat Rangers to the Championship crown and prove Ibrox striker Kenny Miller wrong in the process.

Miller, 34, followed questioned whether Hearts’ young side would be able to handle the pressure triumphing in a tight title race. Neilson responded: “It’s for us to show people what we’ve got. I’m confident we’ve got a strong group here.”