Almost 100 names interested in Hearts job

Hearts have told BBC Scotland they have received close to 100 notes of interest for the vacant managerial position after the sacking of Steven Naismith.

The list of applicants is made up of individuals making direct contact and agents acting on behalf of those interested in the vacancy.

As well as UK-based candidates, there have been applicants from around the world.

The formal process to whittle down the number of names to a manageable number of serious contenders will now begin. A sub-group of executive and non-executive members within the club will be handed this task.

The club's new sporting director Graeme Jones, who does not officially start in his new role until November, will play a part in in the process as Hearts have reached an agreement with his current employer, the Scottish FA. He can work a number of days prior to joining up with Steve Clarke's squad for the next two Scotland matches.

Jamestown Analytics, who are in talks with Hearts regarding a partnership, will also be heavily involved in the process.

Once interviews take place and a preferred candidate is nominated, this will go to the full board for the decision to be ratified.

No timescale has been placed on finding the successor to Naismith but it’s highly unlikely this will be before next Sunday's trip to Aberdeen in the Scottish Premiership.