Rangers-bound defender John Souttar is edging closer to a return to action for Hearts before making the move across the M8 this summer – and he could finally feature for the Jambos in this weekend’s final day Premiership clash with the Light Blues at Tynecastle.
Souttar was once again an unused substitute for the Tynecastle side last night as they slipped to a 2-1 defeat by Motherwell that confirmed the Fir Park side’s place in the Europa Conference League next season.
It’s the second time Souttar has been an unused sub for Robbie Neilson’s side in as many games, and with only two fixtures remaining for the Edinburgh side – both against Rangers – if Souttar does make one final appearance for Hearts, it will be against his soon-to-be employers.
Playing before Ibrox move would be a big boost for Rangers-bound Souttar
With Souttar having been out of action for a number of weeks, getting some competitive minutes under his belt before joining Rangers would be ideal for the defender.
Although it might not seem much, adding another few months to his wait for competitive action will be a frustration for the player after his ankle injury.
However, Hearts boss Robbie Neilson may decide not to throw Souttar in after opting against it last night when Toby Sibbick was stretchered off.
Rather than bring Souttar off the bench, Neilson brought Stephen Kingsley on in Sibbick’s place at Fir Park.