Hearts set to without Craig Halkett for key runs of fixtures

Hearts have suffered a key injury blow with defender Craig Halkett set missing for the coming weeks.

The centre-back limped out of Wednesday night’s 2-1 loss to Celtic at Tynecastle Park in the final ten minutes.

Manager Robbie Neilson revealed Halkett has a hamstring issue and is set for a period on the sidelines.

The 26-year-old has been an important player for third-place Hearts, marshalling the defence in the middle of the back three.

He had missed just one game up until now, a 2-0 defeat against Motherwell.

New signing Toby Sibbick is set to take his place in defence with Hearts hosting the Steelmen on Saturday in what is a battle between third and fourth in the table.

There are also games against Hibs, Rangers and a Scottish Cup tie coming up.

Halkett signed a contract extension earlier this month. He is the most dominant player in the air in the Premiership this campaign for players who have made 10 or more appearances.