Bristol City star Paul Hartley could be set for a shock return to the SPL with Jim Jefferies Hearts.

Hartley joined City in July last year on a free transfer from Celtic and played an important part in their Championship campaign, making 36 appearances, including four as a substitute and has one year of his contract left at Ashton Gate.

But the appointment of new boss Steve Coppell has left the 33 year-old unsure of his future.

Hartley to Celtic in 2007 for £1.1m after being unsettled at Hearts under owner Vladimir Romanov.

The midfield dynamo’s days at Tynecatsle were numbered when he went public along with now Falkirk boss and Scotland No.1 Craig Gordon in questioning the running of the club in a statement that saw them dubbed the Riccarton Three.

Romanov recently went on record as saying the midfielder was exactly the type of player the club needs.

And speaking about a possible return Hartley told the Daily Mail: “Hearts are without a doubt the third biggest team in Scotland. Going back there is something that would really interest me.

“I know Jim Jefferies well, having spoken to him over the years and I know he has the club at heart.

“It comes down to what Bristol want and what the new manager wants there. I have only had a five minute chat with him and I will probably have another talk with him next week and see where it goes.”

Hearts boss Jim Jefferies is said to be keen to bring midfield star back to Scotland as he sets about boosting his squad for the forthcoming season.

Last month The Robins issued a hands off warning to hearts over the player then seemed to change their stance.

The 33 year old midfield ace revealed it has always been his intention to come back up the road from England at some point- and a move back to Tynecastle clearly appeals.

“I would never say never, “ he said about re-joining the Jambos. “ I had a great time at Hearts, even with what happened with the ‘Riccarton Three’.

“I left on good terms when I went to Celtic so I don’t know. I have another year left on my contract here.

“I’ve always wanted to come back up the road, to be fair. I’ll just wait and see what happens.”