Double fitness boost for Hearts ahead of Scottish cup final countdown

Darren Barr (left) and Craig Beattie (right) are fighting to be fit for the final© SNS Group

Hearts’ injury worries have lessened in the run up to the Scottish Cup final.

Craig Beattie, whose penalty kick sent Paulo Sergio’s men through in the semi final against Celtic, is expected to resume training before the weekend.

The former Swansea striker has missed Hearts' last two games after suffering a hamstring strain in the 2-2 draw at Tannadice.

Speaking to The Herald this week, Beattie said his injury was not a problem for his Hampden hopes.

Beattie said: “I've got a bit of a tight muscle. I'm looking after it and working with the physio. I spoke to the manager and he knows there is no problem, we are just protecting it a little bit.

"We will make a decision towards the end of the week with regards to the Celtic game. I probably will train on Wednesday and take things from there."

Another boost for Sergio is the news that Darren Barr will be fit for the final. Converted midfielder Barr limped off the Tynecastle turf during Hearts’ 2-0 defeat of St Johnstone, but the assessment of the former Falkirk captain is that his knock is not serious.

Hearts coach Gary Locke said it was great to see players pushing for a cup final place ahead of the SPL match against Celtic on Sunday.

Locke told Hearts TV: “Darren thinks it's a dead leg, but he's worked with the physios in the last couple of days and he might have a chance for the weekend, if not, we'll look to get him fit for next week.”

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