Hearts have had a curious relationship with the loan market, well specifically during one era. Under Vladimir Romanov the club brought in a whole host of players on ‘temporary’ deals from Lithuanian side FBK Kaunas.
Not only did it see a raft of Lithuanians arrive over the course of a few years, but others were signed to Kaunas then sent to Tynecastle without ever playing for their ‘parent club’. In addition, it has been a useful market for the club to supplement the squad and bring in players from the Premier League in England.
Click and scroll through to see 14 players who made a positive impact mark at Tynecastle. (Players who signed on loan from Kaunas without ever playing for the Lithuanians were discounted)
1. Ricardo Fuller
The Jamaican was a huge hit during the 2001/02 season, lighting up Tynecastle with his pace, dribbling and goal threat. Perhaps his standout moment was the solo strike in a 3-1 win over Motherwell, bursting through the defence and rounding the goalkeeper. There was huge disappointment when a permanent deal wasn’t done. Photo: SNS Group
2. Lee Miller
Signed midway through the 2004/05 campaign, the striker was a revelation, hitting 11 goals in 22 starts. He formed a fine little and large partnership with Mark Burchill. Miller was the perfect focal point, able to hold the ball up, link play, win headers, make it uncomfortable for defenders and score. Photo: SNS Group Aubrey Washington
3. Saulius Mikoliunas
One of the first Lithuanian players to arrive at Tynecastle, spending four and a half seasons on loan from Kaunas. He was a divisive figure during his time in Scotland, known for barging a linesman and diving against Scotland. But he helped Hearts win a Scottish Cup and produced a number of big moments, notably a winner in a 3-2 derby win over Hibs. Photo: SNS Group Alan Harvey
4. Rudi Skacel
Perhaps the finest loan signing of them all. The Czech arrived as an unknown from French giants Marseille but would thrill the Tynecastle crowd with 17 goals in 2005/06, winning the Scottish Cup and helping split the Old Firm, earning legendary status which was cemented in a further spell at the club. Photo: SNS Group Jeff Holmes