HEARTS STEP UP HUNT FOR COACH

HEARTS have stepped up the search for a new head coach — but will stick with caretaker Jon Daly for the next two Premiership games. Club owner Ann Budge and director of football Craig Levein intend to interview a number of candidates today and tomorrow, having compiled a shortlist from the huge pile of applications to replace axed boss Ian Cathro.

Sportsmail understands that former England manager Steve McClaren will not be among the first group of interviewees — but he is still seen as a serious contender for the post. Among the names to have piqued the interest of Budge and Levein are current England Under-21 coach Aidy Boothroyd and Owen Coyle. But it is understood that Daly, who has taken charge alongside former Cathro assistant Austin MacPhee, will oversee this weekend’s trip to Kilmarnock and the away game against Rangers the following week. Meanwhile, Daly has hinted that Jamie Walker could return to the Hearts squad this weekend after insisting the want-away winger has stepped up his game in training. Walker was axed for the last two competitive fixtures against Dunfermline and Celtic, with Daly stating last week that continued speculation linking the player with Rangers had negatively affected his performances. ‘He’s trained well this week,’ said Daly. ‘If he continues like that, I’ll speak to him over the next few days and I’d hope he’ll be back involved in the squad on Saturday. ‘He’s a player you want in your team as he’s a match-winner.’