Steven Naismith has confirmed that Odel Offiah is out for the foreseeable, leaving the Heart of Midlothian head coach short of options at right-back.

Nathaniel Atkinson, usually first pick on the right side of the defence, was stretchered off in September's 1-0 defeat away to St Mirren and isn't expected to return to action anytime soon, leaving Toby Sibbick as the sole first-team player who can fulfil the role.

Adam Forrester, a defender with the B team, was named on the bench for Sunday's 3-1 loss to Rangers in the semi-finals of the League Cup, and he may be included in the matchday squad for Saturday's trip to Fir Park with Offiah set for a spell on the sidelines.

"Odel will sit out just now," Naismith told Hearts TV. "He has got some medical issues so we need to make sure he is safe and ready to do so, but that process will take place."

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Naismith also provided an update on summer signing Kyosuke Tagawa, and also discussed Craig Gordon and Craig Halkett's recoveries from their long-term injuries.

"Kyosuke will come back into the group, which is good," Naismith added. "And we are now starting to see some of the boys who have been out for a [longer] period out on the grass more, which is pleasing. That brings competition.

"Craig Gordon is still continuing [his recovery]. He is back in full training and is comfortable. We had an 11v11 internally in training earlier in the week, which was good for a few of them – Craig and Craig Halkett as well. He is progressing as we expect, he’s on track, and the next few weeks will be important for him."

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