Miko op fear for Hearts

SAULIUS MIKOLIUNAS may require an operation to repair his damaged knee ligaments after returning home to consult Lithuanian medics on the problem.

Csaba Laszlo, the Hearts manager, conceded today that Mikoliunas' injury is "more complicated" than first thought and surgery is now being considered. Hearts expect a decision on whether to operate by the end of the week.

The winger sustained the damage during the victory over St Mirren earlier this month when his shot was blocked by John Potter. An MRI scan initially ruled him out for two months but Laszlo is now unsure if a more extensive recovery period will be required.

"We have not made a decision yet but this week the player will speak with the doctors and specialists and decide whether to have an operation or not," said the Hungarian. "We cannot think about his services for a long time. His knee injury is more complicated but I hope he is back by the end of December. He is consulting with the doctors back in Lithuania to decide what happens."

Mikoliunas has shown some of his finest form this season under Laszlo's tutelage and is praying for a quick recovery that will see him back in a Hearts shirt before the end of the year.

His compatriot, Deividas Cesnauskis, remains sidelined by a muscle complaint and will also not return until next month. "Cesnauskis needs about two or three weeks to come back. He is progressing okay," added Laszlo.

The manager reported more encouraging news on Danish striker Mike Tullberg's recovery from a torn quad muscle.is expected to resume training later this week with a view to playing against Rangers on Saturday week. "I am very happy. Hopefully it will mean we have very few players injured," said Laszlo.