Hearts are set to be handed a major Edinburgh derby boost by Zander Clark, according to a report.
The Scotland squad player suffered a hamstring injury against Kilmarnock on April 1 but is back in training with a view to stepping up his return ahead of the capital showdown claim the Scottish Sun. They also note that Josh Ginnelly could also return to training today as he makes a late bid to be ready for Saturday's showdown.
Clark has been the main man between the sticks since skipper Craig Gordon suffered his season-ending double-leg break. He's now hopeful of taking his position on the park at Easter Road this weekend as caretaker boss Steven Naismith bids to return the Gorgie side to winning ways and dent the Hibees' chances of reaching the top six. Both clubs have just one game following the derby with the need for a return to winning ways and a big three points more important than ever.
READ MORE: Hibs vs Hearts on TV: Channel, live stream and kick-off details for crunch Edinburgh derby clash
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Robbie Neilson was axed at the weekend following a home defeat to St Mirren. That has left the Jambos now trailing Aberdeen in the Premiership standings in the race for third.
Barry Robson's men have turned a corner in the form guide and now hold the best of the rest spot behind Celtic and Rangers.
It is a position that could lead to guaranteed European group stage football once again next season - a luxury enjoyed by Hearts this time around. With both Old Firm clubs in the Scottish Cup semi-final, one will be guaranteed to reach the final and will be heavy favourites to defeat either Falkirk or Inverness in the Hampden showpiece.
That would mean the Europa League play-off place that is awarded to the winner would go the third-placed Premiership team with a guaranteed parachute into the Europa Conference League group stages.
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