Hearts run rule over Finnish cap

HEARTS have taken Finland internationalist Kari Arkivuo on trial as they prepare to begin the new season without winger Andrew Driver.

Driver is recuperating following a thigh operation, and with the new SPL season kicking off in three weeks' time, manager Jim Jefferies says the player's availability for the opening-day meeting with St Johnstone on 14 August is in doubt.

He is, however, more positive on the chances of Kevin Kyle being fit enough to make his competitive debut for the club against the Saints. The striker underwent thigh surgery of his own after arriving at Tynecastle and will not travel with the squad for their friendlies against Gillingham and Millwall next week. However, he is expected to face Wolves on 3 August and against Blackburn Rovers four days later.

Another player who could soon see game time for Hearts is Arkivuo. The 27-year-old midfielder, who has been capped eight times, currently plays for Go Ahead Eagles. Jefferies added: "He's been recommended to us so we're having a look at him over the next couple of days and then we can take it from there."