Robbo: Don't attack Hart

HEARTS boss John Robertson is set to recall playmaker Paul Hartley for tonight’s CIS Cup semi-final against Motherwell - and has urged the club’s fans not to turn on the midfielder as the Jambos go for glory at Easter Road.

The 28-year-old was forced to sit out the weekend win over Aberdeen amid ongoing uncertainty over his future, with Celtic attempting to prise him away from Tynecastle.

Hearts rejected an initial 200,000 bid for the player, who then slapped in a transfer request in an attempt to hasten his departure to his boyhood heroes.

However, a further improved bid of 400,000 over the weekend failed to sway the Gorgie board, who were determined to hang on to their top scorer this season.

The transfer window slammed shut at midnight with Hartley still on the Tynecastle payroll and Robertson is hoping the fans will get behind the in-form star, who still has 18 months of his current contract remaining.

"Paul will play tonight as he is in good shape," said Robertson. "I know the fans will get behind him and the rest of the team at Easter Road as this is a great opportunity to reach a major cup final.

"The fact is that if Paul’s playing well, the supporters will cheer him and I’m sure his performances will be such that that is what will happen.

"He wanted to go to Celtic but it didn’t happen and he has already shown his value to the team with the displays and the goals he has scored this season. I’m confident he will continue to give us 100 per cent."

Hearts have sold out their allocation of 9400 tickets for tonight’s game. The Tynecastle ticket office will be open until 7pm for collections only.