IAN CATHRO is ready to “draw a line” under the Jamie Walker saga as the winger prepares to return to action for Hearts. 

The 24-year-old missed the Jambos’ first pre-season friendly against Livingston on Saturday with a slight knock, but is likely to be involved against St Patrick’s Athletic in Dublin this evening.

It will be Walker’s first appearance since Hearts director of football Craig Levein made the player’s desire to leave Hearts public, and the subsequent rejection of two bids from Rangers.

And head coach Cathro reckons Walker, who has one year left to run on his deal, remains a pivotal part of his squad and will relish the opportunity to focus on football.

“I would hope we can draw a line under it,” said Cathro. “Partly for us, partly for Jamie. It ended up being a lot of stress coming from a number of directions around him. 

“My priority was to be able to support him and make sure he felt comfortable here – which he does.

“He is part of the group and training as normal. There is no situation. 

“Jamie is focused, training well and working hard, playing in our team is a valuable thing. 

“There is no problem going forward. Our best players will play, those players who are working hard, focused and training well will play. Simple. Plain and simple.”