Lawrence Shankland's Hearts absence reason revealed as Steven Naismith relays 'stay away' message

Lawrence Shankland isn't in the Hearts squad to face Spartans because of illness.

The Jambos stand in skipper will sit out the Scottish Cup fourth round clash at Ainslie Park with usual captain Craig Gordon back between the sticks after over a year out with a double broken leg. Shankland is in the midst of contract negotiations with the club, who have tabled an offer that would make him their highest paid player in decade. However, reports have emerged claiming that they will have to go even higher to persuade him to remain in Gorgie beyond summer 2025.

But Steven Naismith has moved to quash any suggestions that Shankland is on the move this month. He wouldn't be cup-tied after the transfer window closes, which has set tongues wagging after being heavily linked to Rangers. But Naismith has reassured fans that feeling unwell is the only reason he's not in the starting line up to face Dougie Samuel's league two side.

He told BBC Scotland: "The last few days he has been ill. He's not been in the building since Tuesday or Wednesday and to be honest it is no great affect having him here. We've got a busy week and we will see how that plays out in the lead up to Dundee.

"He's not been seen or been with the group. He's been in contact with the medical staff and their advice has been to stay away. Unfortunately that is it. I am confident with the team we've got we should be able to go on today and put Spartans under pressure.