Earlier in the season, Kilmarnock and Hearts both put together strong runs of play to guarantee their spots in the Premiership’s top six. The first of the teams’ five post-split games will take place at Rugby Park on Saturday.
Before the game, the respective managers Derek McInnes and Steven Naismith are both concerned about injuries, but such have somewhat subsided in recent weeks. Kilmarnock, who had only suffered three losses in their previous 21 games, had a bye last weekend when Hampden Park hosted the Scottish Cup semi-finals. In the second of the matches, Hearts played but lost 2-0 against Rangers.
Naismith must now pick his players up to see the job through and achieve one of their pre-season targets – third place in the Premiership. Winning at Rugby Park will confirm that position and ensure Hearts player European league football again next season.
Here is the injury latest ahead of the game:
1. Calem Nieuwenhof (Hearts): Out
The Australian midfielder has had an operation on a tendon issue and won’t play again this season
2. Kyle Magennis (Kilmarnock): Doubt
The midfielder has a hamstring problem which could keep him out.
3. Craig Halkett (Hearts): Out
Back doing some training after knee surgery but won’t be available this weekend.
4. Fraser Murray (Kilmarnock): Doubt
Another one with a hamstring problem who is 50/50 for Saturday.
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