Hearts set to be forced into major defensive changes for Ross County clash

Daniel Stendel will have to change both his full-backs for Hearts critical Premiership showdown with Ross County this evening.

Right-back Sean Clare is suspended after his red card in the last Premiership match against Aberdeen, while left-back Aaron Hickey will sit out tonight’s match in Dingwall after sustaining a minor injury against Airdrieonians on Saturday. Ben Garuccio is expected to replace the 17-year-old as Hearts look to eat into their five-point deficit at the foot of the Premiership.

“We decided for Hickey it’s best if he gets one game’s more rest,” said the manager. “He’s played so many games already from last year and sometimes he’s needed rest but we couldn’t give him it. He’s not an option for this game.”

Stendel was due to make a late decision on the fitness of Michael Smith after he also suffered an injury at the weekend. The versatile Northern Irishman has been playing central midfield in recent matches but would be an obvious contender to play at right-back if available.

Asked about the right-back situation, Stendel said: “Let’s surprise you tonight! We have enough players in the squad. Maybe they haven’t played right-back every time but we have some players that have the ability to play this position in our style.”

Stendel was also mulling over whether or not to hand a start to new winger Donis Avdijaj. “I think he is ready to play,” the manager said yesterday. “He trained yesterday (Monday) for the first time after a long flight, and today again. We will decide together what will be best, whether he starts or comes on later.”