JJ adamant Webster is a real leader

Webster excelled after picking up the armband following the dismissal of his Lithuanian defensive colleague against Hibs at Easter Road on Sunday. And the Hearts manager was sufficiently impressed with his most recent signing's display, saying that the player who led Dundee United to Scottish Cup success last season was a "natural successor" in the role.

"He led the line superbly," said Jefferies. "He captained the team well in the second half and his determination to win the ball set up our equaliser. His performance against Hibs shows the quality Andy has got.

"He knows what it takes to play in a derby - he has been involved in many - and I think it was a big factor. I would like to think he is a natural successor to Marius so he'll lead the team out in his absence."

Meanwhile, according to Aberdeen manager Craig Brown, it is "only a matter of time" before Dons vice-captain Zander Diamond joins Webster and Zaliukas to challenge for a central defensive role at Tynecastle.

Diamond is out of contract in the summer at the north-east club and has been heavily linked with a move to the Capital in recent weeks.

"They can afford to offer Zander double the basic wage he is likely to get with Aberdeen," said Brown.

"It looks as if it's only a matter of time before they offer Zander something."

Diamond, who is returning from suspension, has denied there is any done deal.

He said: "I have never said I was going. I'm under contract here until the end of June."