Jamie Hamill’s Hearts return delayed until next year

HEARTS player Jamie Hamill is unlikely to make his long-awaited return from injury until after the winter break.

The 26-year-old, who has been out since April after rupturing a cruciate knee ligament, had been earmarked to be back in contention for action this month.

Manager John McGlynn, however, revealed that the full-back has suffered slight pain in his knee, which is likely to hold his comeback up by a few weeks.

As a result, he is now being primed for a return to the squad for the SPL trip to Celtic Park on January 19.

McGlynn said: “The pain Jamie’s getting is described as ‘common but frustrating’, but everyone’s looked at it that needs to look at it, and they’re confident that nothing else needs to be done. We’re looking at hopefully having him back for the Celtic game.”