Second chance for John Sutton at Hearts after impressive display at Raith

Hearts assistant manager Edgaras Jankauskas© SNS Group

John Sutton has been tipped to re-establish himself in Hearts’ starting line-up this season.

The striker was loaned out to Australian side Central Coast Mariners in February, having fallen out of favour with previous boss Paulo Sergio.

John McGlynn is now the man in charge at Tynecastle and his assistant, former Hearts striker Edgaras Jankauskas, believes Sutton will prove valuable after impressing in a friendly win over Raith Rovers.

“John had a good game on Saturday,” Jankauskas told Hearts TV.

"He held the line well, fought for high balls, scored a goal and helped the team create chances. He’s just coming into his best form and will be useful for us this season.”

Jankauskas scored 13 times in 47 appearances for Hearts, having played with the club from 2005 until 2007.

Following further spells at six clubs, including a spell in the MLS with New England Revolution, the 37-year-old took up a coaching role with Lokomotiv Moscow and says he is gaining yet more experience from returning to Scotland.

“Saturday wasn’t my first time in the dugout,” he said. “Last year I worked as an assistant in Moscow. Of course, it’s not as much fun as you have out there on the field.

“Life is made that way but I’m enjoying my time and learning a lot from John, Gary Locke and Darren Murray. It’s a great experience.

“You can’t play forever and the next step is to give your experience to younger lads.”

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