Jim Jefferies has confirmed he may not be able to call on Calum Elliot until well into next season after the striker underwent knee surgery. Elliot, who scored four goals in four games at the start of the season, went under the knife on on Wednesday and faces a lengthy spell of rehabilitation. Jefferies said: "They're talking around about six months. It's a blow for the boy and the club. He's been plagued with injuries a lot. He made a great start to the season after pre-season work and we thought he had got over them, but sometimes people are unfortunate in that way. We'll do everything we can to get him back as quick as possible." There was more encouraging news on Kevin Kyle, with the striker poised to resume training after a double hernia operation. Jefferies added: "He's going to train today. He's doubtful for the next couple of days. It's a lot better, it's settled down. The only test will be when he starts training. If there's no reaction it's good news."
Ahead of Sunday's Edinburgh Easter Road derby against Hibs, Hearts' squad is decimated by injury and suspension Defender Eggert Jonsson and midfielder Adrian Mrowiec are banned, while Lee Wallace is a major doubt after recent ankle trouble. Winger Suso Santana and midfielder Rudi Skacel are doubtful, and captain Marius Zaliukas will be assessed after returning from international duty with Lithuania. Jefferies added: "We've had to handle it over the last few weeks. It's not been ideal. Maybe that's one of the reasons we've not been at our best, but what a great time to get good form back on Sunday."
Third-placed Hearts currently hold a 12-point lead over fourth-placed Dundee United, having played a game more. But they have one win from their last four SPL games and Jefferies hopes a win at Hibs can help his side secure third place. However, a win would almost certainly end Hibs' hopes of climbing into the top six ahead of the SPL split and the prospect of another capital clash this term. Jefferies went on: "We've got to look after our own side of things. We're trying to get another win under our belt to clinch third place. I did say it would be nice if they got in the top six because there would be another derby to look forward to. I can forgo that if it means us clinching third place. We'll be determined to win on Sunday."