Hearts transfer state of play as Lawrence Shankland uncertainty can't overshadow Steven Naismith's other needs

All the Tynecastle talk has been centred on keeping Lawrence Shankland.

And no wonder. The Hearts striker has scored 18 goals already this season, with the Jambos' next best source of goals Kenneth Vargas on three, and own goals. It doesn't take a mathematician to work out that Steven Naismith's side would not be sitting five points clear in third without the stand in skipper's strikes.

But Shankland's importance can't overshadow what else is required in January. Things are looking good just now, but Naismith is only ever a couple of results away from being under pressure again. Recent results have been good, but performances haven't always been convincing and there is certainly plenty of room for improvement. Top of the list has to be a right back. Odel Offiah's health issues mean he won't be coming back on loan from Brighton. With Nathaniel Atkinson away at the Asian Cup with Australia, Hearts are short on the right hand side of defence, be it at full back or wing back.

Toby Sibbick can operate there, but is in and out of the team and looks better as part of a central back three. Stephen Kingsley has filled in admirably, but a left footer playing on the right is never ideal and Hearts lose something when Kingsley is shifted out of position.

Further forward, and midfield could use something different. Jorge grant looked to have played his way back into contention under Naismith. It looked like he was on the way out at the start of the season, but has shown in flashes he can bring a little bit of guile. The boss and sporting director Joe Savage may have an upgrade in mind, with Grant missing from the side in recent weeks. Cammy Devlin, Beni Baningime and Peter haring all perform a similar role, so a bit more dynamism or