Scottish Premiership leaders Hearts face a significant injury crisis with key defender Stuart Findlay sidelined for six weeks with a hamstring injury. Record signing Eduardo Ageu will miss the rest of the season after requiring thigh surgery during his first start against Rangers.

The injury blow comes as Hearts maintain a four-point lead at the top of the table. Goalkeeper Craig Gordon's shoulder injury also threatens his participation in Scotland's upcoming friendlies against Japan and Ivory Coast. Multiple first-team players including captain Lawrence Shankland remain sidelined.

Head coach Derek McInnes remains philosophical about the situation, acknowledging that injuries are part of football. With several players potentially returning in April, McInnes focuses on the immediate challenge of maintaining the league lead through the next four games despite having 11 players unavailable for training.