What Craig Gordon's Scotland call-up means for Hearts

The Hearts No.1 was resplendent at Hampden Park on Saturday making a number of crucial stops, including one incredible point-blank save from Kevin Nisbet, as Hearts defeated rivals Hibs 2-1 to reach the Scottish Cup final later this year.

After such a performance and a strong start to the season under Robbie Neilson, a return to the Scotland squad was the least that Gordon deserved.

But what does Steve Clarke’s decision mean for Hearts and their upcoming fixtures?

Scotland play three games in the space of seven days. First up is the mammoth Euro 2020 play-off final with Serbia on Thursday, November 12 before trips to Slovakia and Israel on November 15 and 18 respectively in the Nations League.

During that period Hearts are in action only once, a trip to Methil to face East Fife in the Betfred Cup. That fixture takes place on Tuesday, November 10, between the Slovakia and Israel fixtures.

With Hearts having won all three of their opening Betfred Cup group fixtures they need only draw against the Fifers to finish top of the group.

It will mean either Ross Stewart or Zdenek Zlamal coming into the team for that midweek encounter. Having been on the bench on Saturday in the win over Hibs and started against Raith Rovers already in the competition, Stewart, loan signing from Livingston, would be the likely deputy.

Of more likely concern is the league fixture after the international break. Hearts travel to East End Park to face Dunfermline Athletic on Friday, November 20 in the televised Championship match.

Gordon, as noted by Evening News writer Barry Anderson, would not be due back from Scotland’s three-game road trip until the day before.

The same goes for Michael Smith and Liam Boyce who will likely be called up for Northern Ireland’s three games which also includes a Euro 2020 play-off.

That being said Robbie Neilson had no qualms playing the Northern Ireland pair against Dundee following a similar situation.