Jeff keeps an open mind over Hearts players

JIM JEFFERIES admits certain Hearts players have proved him wrong since he returned to the club and persuaded him that they deserve a place at Tynecastle next season.

Whilst refusing to name names, the manager stated that there were members of the squad over whom he harboured doubts but has seen his opinions change during the last three months.

"I think since I came in I have been surprised about people I had doubts about. They have encouraged me and done well," explained Jefferies. "There have been a lot of players who have changed my mind, both for and against.

"At the end of the season, we will on focus what we are going to do and what the way forward is.

"We have to assess that. There are players under contract that we might feel are not in our plans and we will speak to them.

"They may want to stay and battle on or they may want to play regularly.

"In the next couple of weeks, we'll start to make moves towards making decisions."

Meanwhile, Jefferies was today digesting the news that winger Andy Driver tore a thigh muscle during last weekend's victory over Kilmarnock and will miss a minimum of two weeks as Hearts begin their top-six fixtures with a visit to Rangers this Sunday.

"Whatever the timescale, it's another disappointment for the lad, who's had a few injuries this season," said Jefferies.