Steven Naismith could be named in Hearts squad for Hamilton clash, reveals Daniel Stendel

Talismanic forward has missed last three games through injury

Steven Naismith (right) with John Souttar during a training session at the Oriam

Daniel Stendel has revealed striker Steven Naismith could be included in the Hearts squad for the Ladbrokes Premiership clash with Hamilton.

The Scotland international hasn't been involved since he was forced off after just 26 minutes of the Capital club's home match with Livingston at the start of the month, but the German boss is hopeful the 33-year-old could play some part in the crucial encounter in Lanarkshire.

Hamilton are just a single goal worse off than the Tynecastle side, with both teams targeting a win at the FOY Stadium.

Speaking on Friday, Stendel said: “I hope Naisy can come back into the squad tomorrow.

"Christophe [Berra] is suspended. I hope every other player (who is not injured) can play tomorrow. We train today and then I’ll decide about Jake [Mulraney] after training.

“Jamie Brandon is not fit for tomorrow. He’ll have a scan then we’ll know more but at the moment we only know that he has a big ankle!”

Hearts are without defensive duo Ben Garuccio and John Souttar, goalkeeper Colin Doyle, midfielder Peter Haring, winger Callumn Morrison and striker Conor Washington, who remain sidelined, but Uche Ikpeazu is available for selection after missing the visit of Celtic through suspension.