Report claims Hearts have interviewed experienced coach Alan Irvine over Tynecastle role

Alan Irvine is the latest coach to be interviewed for a role at Hearts, according to a report.

It is suggested forward Steven Naismith recommended him to the club.

The Daily Record report he has held talks with Hearts, but it is unclear whether it is over the manager or sporting director role.

Alan Irvine has reportedly interviewed for a role at Hearts. Picture: Getty

The club's owner Ann Budge is keen to recruit for both jobs and it is expected that that latter position will be filled before the former.

The 61-year-old Scot is vastly experienced, having worked in a number of different positions for a variety of clubs in England.

He is associated closely with David Moyes, having been his trusted No.2 at Everton as well as at West Ham United. He was also in that role at Norwich City, working with Alex Neil.

Irvine has significant managerial experience, firstly at Preston North End before spells with Sheffield Wednesday and West Bromwich Albion.

In addition he has held academy director positions at Newcastle United and Blackburn Rovers.

Irvine, who began his playing career with Queen's Park and had a spell at Dundee United, has the experience to step into either role.

Hearts have so far interviewed four unattached managers to replace Craig Levein - Stuart McCall, Steve Cotterill, Neil McCann and Jack Ross.

Interim boss Austin MacPhee is expected to be in the dugout for the club's visit to Kilmarnock on Saturday.