Hearts boss explains Steven Naismith sub and Andy Irving absence

Steven Naismith takes the knee ahead of Cowdenbeath v Hearts.

Hearts captain Steven Naismith was taken off at half-time against Cowdenbeath as a precaution due to the artificial surface at Bayview, manager Robbie Neilson revealed.

The 34-year-old was replaced by Craig Wighton after playing the opening 45 minutes of the 1-0 win over the Blue Brazil, with Neilson admitting that the pitch at East Fife’s ground was an issue for the Scotland internationalist.

Neilson said: “His back was a bit tight so there was no point taking a risk on it so we took him off to get him ready for Tuesday [against Raith Rovers].”

The Tynecastle gaffer also offered an update on Andy Irving, who missed the game due to be called up for the Scotland Under-21 squad.

"He was going to start but we got a phone call on Friday night and he got the call-up, which is great for Andy,” added Neilson. “For us, we missed that ability to dictate the game.”