Hearts review Banks' future

HEARTS are said to be reviewing the future of goalkeeper Steve Banks.

A decision is reportedly expected in the coming week after Banks was removed from his role as first team keeper and keeper coach.

It is said Banks has not been seen at the Riccarton training ground since being stripped of the positions and offered the opportunity to coach children.

New Scotland striking partnership 'over already'

SCOTLAND's failure to score against Northern Ireland last night has sparked plans to break-up the Kenny Miller-James McFadden strike partnership, it was reported today.

Boss George Burley is said to be considering the change, eager for his first win.

Sub-keeper Allan McGregor made a sensational save during the 0-0 game, but Craig Gordon remains first-choice keeper.

Young Scots still flying

SCOTLAND'S Under-21s remain on course for the European Championship finals despite breaching UEFA travel rules, it was reported today.

The team beat Lithuania 3-0 last night despite arriving less than 24 hours before the match, as required by the rules. But dispensation was granted after travel complexities were explained.

Hearts set to welcome back injured stars

THERE are hopes that injured Hearts players will be fit enough for Saturday's home game against St Mirren, it was reported today.

Csaba Laszlo is understood to be confident David Obua will be on the pitch while striker Mike Tullberg will have overcome his thigh injury.

The boss is also believed to be confident forward Gary Glen may feature, along with Mirsad Beslija, Robbie Neilson and Bruno Aguiar.

Nish says Hibs' season has been kick-started

HIBS are confident their win over Falkirk will help to kick start the season, it was reported today.

Striker Colin Nish is quoted saying his double has quashed worries after an 11-game run without a victory.

He said: "You get people on the street coming up to you asking 'what's happening? what is wrong with you?'

"But getting that first win under your belt gets rid of a lot of the pressure."