The squad - in action against Rangers in the Clydesdale Bank Premier League at lunch-time today - expected wages to be deposited in their accounts on Friday.

Instead, they have been told they will have to wait until Monday to be paid, with club bosses reportedly not offering a reason for the delay.

Players and staff found themselves in a similar position in September when they had to wait almost a week for their wages, with Hearts blaming a "technical hitch" on that occasion.

A Hearts spokesperson told the Daily Record: "The funds are available for player wages and have been processed today.

"They will reach accounts on Monday."