Hearts' Michael Stewart in line to return for Rangers match

HEARTS captain Michael Stewart hopes to help the club's late push for a European spot by returning from a calf injury against Rangers at Ibrox on Sunday.

The midfielder has not played since February but has been passed fit to return to training.

Algerian defender Ismael Bouzid is also nearing a return after missing two months of action with a troublesome hamstring problem.

Hearts manager Jim Jefferies said: "Michael should train at some point this week.

We have another closed-door game tomorrow against Falkirk, mainly for Ismael's benefit and for those who have been out injured. That will help us."

Jefferies is awaiting news of Andrew Driver's latest injury after the winger suffered a thigh problem during Saturday's 1-0 win over Kilmarnock, which secured the Edinburgh club's place in the top six of the Clydesdale Bank Premier League.

"We just have to hope it's a strain and not a tear," Jefferies said. "The positive is that it's not the knee.

"Gary Glen has a hamstring problem so he will still be doubtful for Sunday.

"Jose (Goncalves) is still having trouble with his knee so he'll still be unavailable for the next couple of weeks."