They left Edinburgh with 25 players, but Hearts will be returning from Spain with 27.
The Jambos have been busy on the training pitch and off it, Robbie Neilson and Joe Savage adding two new faces to their squad. There are more likely to come as well, although they may have to wait until after this camp is finished.
Alex Cochrane’s return on a permanent deal was confirmed over the weekend. The left back penned a three-year deal after spending last season on loan from Brighton. His deal at the Amex was extended, but on the understanding that he’d be allowed to move on if a suitable offer was made.
Hearts made one, and Cochrane is back for the long term. In truth he’s hardly been away, his last appearance in maroon coming in the Scottish Cup final just over a month ago. Nevertheless, rules are rules, and as a ‘new’ signing, he had to sing an initiation song.
There was a late arrival last night as well. Jorge Grant jetted into Malaga, which meant a midnight dash to the airport for Savage to pick the new man up. Grant was confirmed on a three-year deal this morning before being pitched straight into training with his new teammates.
Both then had media duties after the hard work was done, then some afternoon down time as the squad get some recovery time into the legs. There might even be enough time for a bit of golf as well.
The good news is that it’s set to cool a little over the next few days. Whether a couple of degrees down to 24 will make a telling difference when putting the hard yards in is arguable. The ice baths and chilled towels will still be required.
Craig Halkett was spotted on the grass for the first time this trip. The big defender has been recovering after an ankle operation two days after the Scottish Cup final.
He’s limited to running for now, but perhaps got the better end of the deal. The only shade to be had at the training pitch is under the trees behind one goal, and Halkett wisely did the bulk of his work there.
