Budge in to inspect stand at Tynecastle

HEARTS expect to have a better idea whether Sunday’s fixture against Partick Thistle will go ahead this morning when owner Ann Budge personally inspects the new main stand.

Construction staff worked through the night yesterday in a bid to rectify several minor issues which were flagged up in the £14 million project by City of Edinburgh Council inspectors on Monday.

Those issues must be fixed before a safety certificate to host the fixture can be issued.

Budge is keen to give the builders on site as much time as possible before making a decision regarding whether to request a postponement from the SPFL, while the council have shown a willingness to be flexible in making inspectors through the weekend.

However, the capital club are also conscious of the need for Partick Thistle and the supporters of both clubs to be made aware of a final decision as swiftly as possible.

Should it become clear that the work will not be completed in time during her walkaround today, Budge is likely to contact Partick Thistle and the SPFL before officially requesting that the match is re-arranged for another date.

If progress has been made, a further council inspection will take place on Friday - when Budge hopes a safety certificate will be issued Hearts are expected to release an official statement today to update fans on the latest situation.