Robbie Neilson hails Craig Wighton as striker gives him selection poser ahead of Dundee

Robbie Neilson was delighted with Craig Wighton's performance.

The 23-year-old Hearts striker scored his first goals for Hearts at the 25th time of asking as the Jambos defeated Raith Rovers 3-1 to all but secure the club’s progress into the last 16 of the competition.

Wighton’s career at Tynecastle has been stop-start since joining for a six-figure sum in 2018, with injuries and a loan spell at Arbroath limiting his chances in the starting XI.

However, his treble – two of which were from the spot before a late goal to sink Rovers – has propelled him right into contention to start against Dundee when the Championship commences on Friday night when Dundee visit Tynecastle.

“I’m delighted for him,” said Neilson. “I really like him and have known him since he was a young kid. I tried to sign him.

“He did really well against us for Arbroath and Dick [Campbell] was desperate to get him back but I was wanted to keep him.

“He’s given me a decision for Friday night. That’s what I asked from him, with Boycie [Liam Boyce] away on international duty and he’s done that.”

Hearts now have nine points from their first three Betfred Cup Group A matches and, with one match to go away at East Fife, are on the cusp of qualification for the last 16. Neilson was pleased with Hearts’ efforts in the competition, but admitted it was all about preparing for the league curtain-raiser on Friday night as the Jambos continue to foster a winning mentality.

"These were just a warm up for the league,” said Neilson, who will welcome back Boyce, Michael Smith and Andy Irving from international duty for the showdown with James McPake’s men.

“We wanted to get through and now it’s onto the league business with nine points on the board, with five goals and one conceded. You need to be pleased.

“We wanted a winning mentality from these games and we’ve done that. After eight changes, we’re still winning and we need that from anyone who steps on the pitch at Tynecastle. Regardless of who we play, they need to win game.”