Former Gers boss in race for Hearts kid
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Fouls Cautions Sending- of fs A quiet day for apart from the yellow card for Airdrie assistant Colin Cameron STAR MAN
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got on the score sheet but it was in defence where he was most impressive as Hearts collected a first clean sheet since October
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CRAIG Halkett
QPR have joined the hunt for Hearts kid Aaron Hickey.
The English Championship outfit, who are managed by ex- Rangers boss Mark Warburton, sent a representative to watch the 17-year-old in the Jam Tarts’ Scottish Cup win over Airdrie yesterday.
The teen star was subbed after just 28 minutes after picking up an injury.
However, competition for Hickey’s signature is unlikely to cool after a string of eye-catching displays at left back.
Italian giants AC Milan were last week linked with a move for the youngster, while Rangers, Machester City and Southampton are also keeping tabs on his progress.
Hearts gaffer Daniel Stendel described AC Milan’s interest in Hickey as “crazy”. ■ Robbie Neilson admits Dundee United are underdogs against Hibs.
But the Tangerines gaffer insists he will let his side off the leash at Tannadice today.
Promotion remains United’s priority after four seasons in the Championship.
However, with a 17- point lead at the top of the table, Neilson is ready to start fighting on two fronts.
“If the situation in the league was tight, we’d maybe look at it different,” said the United boss.
“But we’re in a position where we have a decent lead so we’re looking at the cup and feeling we can have a bit more of a pop at it.
“But we’re under no illusions, we’re a Championship team playing what is effectively a top six standard team.”
He added: “But to be honest, it’s Dundee United at Tannadice – we’re expected to win.
“Whether we’re playing a team at the bottom of the Championship or playing Rangers or Celtic, our fans expect a performance and us to win games.”
But while their gaffer admits to thoughts of a potential Premiership return, he insists planning is not yet at a concrete stage.
“It depends where we want to be in the Premiership, that’s a conversation we need to have with the owner,” said Neilson.
“If we want to kick on and try to be top six, we’re probably going to have to invest. First and foremost we need to get promoted.”
SEE ALSO PAGES 14 & 15