Johnsen happy at Hearts after turbulent spell in Bulgaria

Bjorn Johnsen felt Hearts were the perfect team to provide the stability he is looking for after a turbulent spell in Bulgaria.

The United States-born striker signed for Litex Lovech last summer but they were expelled from the top flight after the coach ordered his players off the pitch after Johnsen and a team-mate were sent off during a derby against Levski Sofia.

Johnsen decided to leave after the club subsequently merged with CSKA Sofia, and made his Hearts debut off the bench in a 5-1 win over Inverness last weekend after Fifa ruled in his favour following a lengthy international clearance process.

The 24-year-old admits he has had a “bouncy” career having played in his father’s native Norway before spells in Spain and Portugal.

“It’s good, you see different cultures and you learn quicker,” said Johnsen, whose Hearts career continues against Partick Thistle today.

“But I wanted to get some stability. I was in an unstable country so when the chance came to come to Hearts, I just jumped on it.

“The stability and knowing the coach wanted me to play here, I needed that. I had other options but I needed somewhere to work on my game and go further with my future. I have the opportunity to play here constantly as well.”

Jambos midfielder Jamie Walker is available after suspension for the contest against Thistle, who have midfielder Sean Welsh suspended.

Long-term absentees Stuart Bannigan (knee), Gary Fraser (knee) and Mustapha Dumbuya (Achilles) remain out.

Hamilton midfielder Danny Redmond is back in contention following a knee injury as they prepare to host Ross County.

Former Partick Thistle defender Dan Seaborne and former Hartlepool striker Rakish Bingham could make their debuts after signing during the week.

Ross County could hand a debut to former Wigan midfielder Tim Chow.

New boy Bjorn Johnsen is seeking stability with Hearts.