'Kabunga adds different dimension to revived Hearts'

The narrow victory at home to Kilmarnock may not have been Hearts' best performance of the season, but it was another indication they are on an upward spiral.

Make no mistake, this was a game that earlier in the campaign points probably would have been dropped in. But along with an increase in confidence, the impact of the two new recruits who featured last weekend cannot be underestimated.

Jamie McCart popped up with a goal and only the narrowest of offside decisions denied the former St Johnstone centre-back a double.

Striker Elton Kabangu looks like he could soon be a fans' favourite. The Belgian, who has three goals in two starts, adds a different dimension to Hearts' play and although it is early days he is already linking up well with teenager James Wilson.

With both Michael Steinwender and Sander Kartum now in the building, the squad already looks stronger than it was at the start of the window.

And with a few days remaining before it closes on Monday night, there may yet be a few more deals in the offing.

Prior to that a trip to Dens Park awaits. It was there in August the troubles started to appear and after being three goals down before the break there was to be no way back. That defeat began an eight-game losing run that culminated in the sacking of Steven Naismith.

Neil Critchley has since revived Hearts and a win on Saturday would be another indication this Premiership campaign can be a success, with top six and even a European place serious targets to be aiming for.