Hearts boss Jim Jefferies seeking a big man to lead the line

JIM JEFFERIES is seeking a tall, imposing new striker to lead the Hearts attack next season, although the manager is determined that will not mean resorting to route-one football.

• Jim Jefferies

There is much reshuffling to be done throughout the summer as Jefferies attempts to construct a team capable of challenging for major honours next year. Michael Stewart, Jose Goncalves and Christian Nade have all left Tynecastle following the expiry of their contracts, with Larry Kingston likely to follow.

That leaves voids to be filled and Jefferies has made strikers a priority. His wish is for a physical forward with good aerial ability who can convert crosses.

"Most teams have a bit of strength up front but you have to get the balance right," he said. "We're not going to bring in a big man just to thump the ball up to him all the time. We're wanting to concentrate on getting the ball down, getting it wide and getting crosses in for big men to go and attack. That's something we're well aware we have to look at.

"We have one guy in David Obua but he's not a recognised finisher, we know that. He's only new to that position but we've got to strengthen."

Jefferies has continued to finalise his pre-season preparations by arranging a friendly against Dunfermline at East End Park on Tuesday 27 July.

The game will kick off at 7.30pm and takes place a week before Hearts host English Premier League side Wolves with ex-Jambos skipper Christophe Berra in their ranks.

Jefferies said: The game against Dunfermline is just the kind of match we wanted at that time. It will be a decent game and is close to home so I'm sure we will take a few supporters over."

English Championship teams have also been approached about a game at Tynecastle the week before the start of the season.