No love lost by Stevenson for former team

Ryan Stevenson wants to see his former club lose out on getting into the next round of the Scottish Cup to face either Falkirk or Partick Thistle. Hearts take on St Johnstone in the Scottish Cup fourth round tonight and Stevenson is keen to improve the prospects of a long-term future at Tynecastle. Stevenson’s contract ends  at the end of the season, but has been assured by manager Jim Jefferies that he remains part of his plans. Stevenson is hoping to get an opportunity to prove his worth against Saints, having scored in the SPL at McDiarmid Park in November. Stevenson said: "I was at St Johnstone for a good part of my career; I spent four years up there. I've got quite a good record against St Johnstone and it's a game if I'm picked I'll be raring to go in."

Stevenson has played a bit-part role in Hearts' season so far, which sees them third in the SPL after a run of eight wins in nine games. However, with Rudi Skacel (calf) doubtful and illness throughout the camp, Stevenson could get an opportunity tonight in a game rescheduled from Sunday tanks to burst pipes at Tynecastle. Stevenson  hopes he can cement his place in Jefferies' plans, with the manager set to ensure Stevenson stays at Hearts long term by offering him a contract extension. Stevenson, who has made six starts and nine substitute appearances in the league this term, went on: "It's been nice that the manager on a number of occasions has had a word with me. It's been good for me that I know they want me here. I want to be part of what's happening here as well. It's a good time at Hearts. This is a high point of my career and I want to enjoy it."