Harry Milne out for the season as Hearts injury crisis deepens

Heart of Midlothian left-back Harry Milne has been ruled out for the remainder of the season after sustaining an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. The 29-year-old, a key figure in the side over the past year, suffered the setback during training ahead of last Thursday's Conference League defeat to Trabzonspor.

Milne, who was named in the PFA Scotland Premiership team of the year last season, was appointed a vice-captain by manager Wouter Vrancken in July. "Harry is unfortunate, with his season finished," Vrancken said. "It was an ACL, as I expected. There was a bit of hope, but now it's just unlucky for him. It was hard for him, but he has made peace with it."

The injury significantly compounds Hearts' ongoing squad issues. Vrancken is currently facing the prospect of being without eight first-team players for Wednesday’s home clash against Rangers. Alongside Milne, defenders Stuart Findlay and Christian Borchгревінк are also sidelined. While midfielder Blair Spittal is expected to return before Christmas, the manager noted that it is difficult to see fellow midfielder Tom Renaud returning by that time.

Despite a depleted squad, the team secured a hard-fought 2-0 victory against Motherwell on Sunday. Looking ahead to the meeting with Rangers, Vrancken insists the team remains focused on their performance. "We have the same focus as we've had on a few occasions already this season," he added. "Focus on what you have to do on the pitch, because we want to win the game and get the result, even with the injuries."