Robbie Neilson has revealed Craig Halkett is back on the grass as he steps up his latest injury setback.
The key Hearts defender and summer recruit Kye Rowles have been hit with lengthy spells on the sidelines this campaign as the capital club continue to deal with an extensive injury list with Andy Halliday and Peter Haring the latest casualties from the weekend defeat to Aberdeen at Pittodrie.
The capital club have felt the absence of the first choice defensive duo, with Neilson confirming that both will be still unavailable for the visit of Celtic to Tynecastle. Halkett has previously been thrown back into action and broke back down with the club now taking a more cautious approach so that he doesn't suffer any further time in the medical room. Speaking to Edinburgh Evening News, Neilson said: “He is back on the pitch but it's a more gradual process than the last time. We just need to wait and see where he is. We are taking it day-by-day to see if we can build him back up.”
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Australia international Rowles is expected to return before the World Cup break and get minutes under his belt ahead of the Socceroos' Qatar 2022 adventure.
He is still recovering from a broken foot, and is yet to get back running. The capital boss added when asked about availability for this weekend: “I'd expect them both [Halkett/Rowles] to still be out. Rowles isn't back running yet."
However, he did offer a more positive outlook on a trio of stars with Michael Smith, Josh Ginnelly and Gary Mackay-Steven having a chance of being fit and boosting squad numbers as the Jambos bid to return to winning ways.
He added: “There are one or two others who have been out and might make it but we just need to wait and see."
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