McGowan, 21, has played full games at right-back in both of Hearts' Scottish Premier League fixtures so far this season, winning Sky Sports' Man of the Match award in their opener against champions Rangers.

The Adelaide-born youngster also put in a full shift on the right side of defence in Hearts' Europa League qualifier 1-1 draw with Paksi last week.

McGowan typically plays in the centre of defence or midfield, but told heartsfc.co.uk he was happy to play anywhere as long as it was in the first-team after making only eight appearances for the club last term.

"I played a lot there (at right-back) when I was on loan at Ayr United a few seasons back, so I knew what I was doing,” McGowan said.

"The gaffer told me what he wanted from me during the week and I was more than happy to be in the team. I'm happy to play anywhere - as long as I'm playing.”

However, McGowan's situation could change following the dismissal of Hearts boss Jim Jefferies earlier in the week.

Jefferies has been replaced by former Sporting Lisbon boss Paulo Sergio and it remains to be seen if McGowan will start again in the return leg on Thursday against Paksi.

Hearts also travel to Motherwell in Scotland's Premier League on Sunday.