Hearts: Jim Jefferies raring to go as holiday time is over

• Jim Jefferies is ready for the start of a new season. Picture: Ian Rutherford

The manager has kept abreast of events in Edinburgh whilst on holiday and is delighted to have secured the services of striker Kevin Kyle from Kilmarnock and defender Darren Barr from Falkirk. He remains keen to lure Craig Bryson to Tynecastle if Hearts can agree a transfer fee with Kilmarnock.

With a rigorous pre-season programme planned, Jefferies wants his squad to reach prime condition for their opening SPL fixture against St Johnstone on Saturday, 14 August.

"We've got a good pre-season organised, some tough matches, and whilst it's not about the results, we want to make sure that we peak just in time for the St Johnstone game," he said.

"I'm pleased to start at home. We don't underestimate anyone, because it is such a tight league. St Johnstone had a terrific season last year so we know they will be strong opponents.

"It can sometimes be a bit apprehensive taking on the first game of the season, especially when expectation is high, but we'll be looking to put in a strong performance."

Following the release of the new SPL fixture list yesterday, Jefferies is already eagerly anticipating a New Year's Day Edinburgh derby at Tynecastle. "That's one you look out for on the list," he continued. "They are already special games so it's good to be at home."

Meanwhile, former Hearts manager Csaba Laszlo has been credited with an interest in the managerial vacancy at Kilmarnock after discussions between the German World Cup winner Thomas Haessler and Rugby Park chairman Michael Johnston ended unsuccessfully.