Defender Jason Thomson is set to hand boss Csaba Laszlo a timely boost by returning to training this week.

The right-back last featured for the first team in November when he helped Hearts defeat Kilmarnock 2-1 at Rugby Park. However a combination of hamstring and back problems have since kept him on the sidelines.

The 22-year-old was undergoing his last batch of tests today with the physiotherapy department with a view to getting back to full training with the first team squad tomorrow.

Jason's return to fitness will be a welcome lift for Csaba, who has been robbed of the services of the impressive Craig Thomson since the end of October.

Marius Cinikas has started the last two matches and should Jason come through this week's sessions with no ill effects, there's every chance he could be involved in the squad for the visit of St Mirren this weekend.

"It has been a frustrating time for Jason but hopefully he is nearing the end of this," said Csaba.

"We must be careful with him but it is positive that he is nearly ready again and we will see how he goes this week."

On Hearts.TV today, highlights from Pittodrie and the Active Nation Scottish Cup clash with Aberdeen, plus all the exclusive post-match reaction.