LARYEA KINGSTON could make a surprise return for Hearts in Sunday's SPL clash with Aberdeen at Tynecastle - four weeks ahead of schedule.
The Ghanaian midfielder, who last played for the club on October 20, has a chance of a run-out in this weekend's live match after a painkilling jag.
Kingston hopes to return to full training later this week and could be joined in the side by Michal Pospisil and Ruben Palazuelos.
The duo are also in the frame for squad places after coming through a reserve meeting on Tuesday night at Kilmarnock where Lithuanians Ricardas Beniusis and Linas Pilibaitis netted in a 2-2 draw.
Jambos' assistant boss Stevie Frail admitted the return of Kingston was a possibility.
He said: "Larry might be in contention for the weekend.
"He had an injection which I think was just to numb the pain so we need to let that settle down first. He has been out jogging a few times so hopefully it won't be too long."
