Hearts’ Andy Webster set for return against Kilmarnock

The 30-year-old centre-back has missed the last two matches with back and hip complaints but is hopeful of playing at Tynecastle today.

The Evening News learned that Webster, who did not train during the first half of the week, finished yesterday’s session without any adverse reaction to his injuries. Barring any  subsequent problem which may have occurred overnight, he was due to feature in the matchday squad for the visit of the Ayrshire club.

Hearts could climb as high as second place in the Scottish Premier League depending on results this afternoon. The  Edinburgh club currently sit joint fourth with Kilmarnock and St Mirren.

Meanwhile, Webster’s central defensive partner, Marius Zaliukas, has pledged not to be distracted by the fact he is in the last year of his contract at Tynecastle.

Discussions on a new deal have yet to begin, but the Lithuanian stressed he is not overly concerned.

“I have nine months of my contract to go and we have not had any discussions. It has been very quiet,” said Zaliukas.

“Hearts have not contacted me but I am open to talks. Now I am not thinking about the situation. I am focusing on my football.

“If the club come to me and want to talk, of course I am ready to talk.

“It is not a problem. Sometimes it bores me, sometimes not, but I am trying not to think about it. I can’t let it affect me.”